18K Yellow Gold Mid-Century Floral Lavaliere Necklace with Turquoise and Garnet
Necklace (Lavaliere/Pendant style) · Yellow Gold (rich, high-karat saturation)
Purity: 18K (750 fine gold) consisting of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Type
Necklace (Lavaliere/Pendant style)
Purity
18K (750 fine gold) consisting of 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (rich, high-karat saturation)
Weight
12 to 18 grams (estimated based on solid cast floral elements and rope chain thickness)
Description
An exquisite Mid-Century floral necklace featuring a central bouquet of textured gold petals. The piece is accented by lively turquoise cabochons and deep red garnets, creating a classic 'tri-color' aesthetic of the 1960s. The heavy texturing on the gold suggests high-end European craftsmanship.
Key Features
Highly detailed 'shaved' or 'diamond-cut' texture on gold leaves, tiered three-dimensional floral construction, and dropping terminal pendant.
Color & Finish
Deep buttery yellow with a rich textured 'bark' or Florentine matte finish on the petals; high-luster chain links.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the clasp or the reverse of the center floral cluster; typically '750' or '18K' with a maker's mark (not visible in image).
Dimensions Estimate
Chain length 16-18 inches; central floral motif approx. 35mm x 45mm; standard necklace fit.
Gemstones & Inlays
Small round cabochon Turquoise (likely Robin’s Egg blue) and small round-cut Red Garnets set in tiny prongs.
Clasp & Closure
Typically a spring ring or a lobster claw clasp; most likely a spring ring given the era.
Chain & Links
Rope chain construction with interlocking twisted segments; providing high durability and flexibility.
Craftsmanship Details
Lost-wax casting technique with hand-finished 'Florentine' texturing and manual stone setting in multi-level tiers.
Authentication Indicators
Deep yellow color consistent with high karat; weight-heavy drape; crispness of the cast texture; period-correct stone combination.
Origin & Maker
Likely European origin (Italy or France) given the intricate textural craftsmanship and high gold purity.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950s-1960s) with 'Retro' influence, characterized by heavy gold textures and nature motifs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the specific 'nugget-like' texture popular in that era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war resurgence of luxury and the move toward 'Nature-inspired' jewelry in the mid-20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good; gold shows minimal wear; stones appear secure; no visible oxidation or repair marks.
Value Estimate
$1,400 - $1,800 (market value based on gold weight + 40% craftsmanship/era premium).
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush; avoid ultrasonic cleaners as turquoise is porous; store separately to avoid scratching the matte finish.
Similar Items
1960s Van Cleef & Arpels 'Ludo' or 'Chat' series; also comparable to Italian boutiques like Buccellati in terms of surface finish.
Interesting Facts
The 'textured gold' look was popularized following the austerity of WWII, where designers used air and volume in metal to create bold looks without the weight of solid slabs.