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Lillicoco

Georgian 18ct Gold Beaded Tambourine 'Alfajor' Necklace, c.1820

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If you're looking for a timeless piece that exemplifies the beauty of antique jewellery, then this Georgian 18ct Gold beaded Tambourine necklace is definitely a necessary addition to your collection.

This tremendous piece has an intriguing past and displays a beautiful collection of Tambourine beads, which would have been hand strung by a Filipino artisan during the early part of the 19th century. Alfajor necklaces were heavily inspired by Spanish designs which were imported during this time, and each little bead is referred to as 'granada' or pomegranate- when you look up close at the details you can see why! The piece has also drawn inspiration from nature, with the cannetille detailing forming a wreath-like detail around a central rose that rests behind glass, as well as an intricately designed butterfly.

This breathtaking necklace is, literally speaking, a museum-worthy piece, with a similar piece featuring in an exhibition in the The New York Metropolitan Museum of Art* named 'Crossroads: Empires and Emporia'. Necklaces such as this were a display of wealth, and were passed down through the generations with very few authentic pieces remaining today. This is an incredible find indeed!

*https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/40553  

There is also a similar piece to the pendant pictured here: in https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2020/small-wonders-early-gems-and-jewels/spanish-circa-1700-reliquary-pendant 

SKU: X5285

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Description

If you're looking for a timeless piece that exemplifies the beauty of antique jewellery, then this Georgian 18ct Gold beaded Tambourine necklace is definitely a necessary addition to your collection.

This tremendous piece has an intriguing past and displays a beautiful collection of Tambourine beads, which would have been hand strung by a Filipino artisan during the early part of the 19th century. Alfajor necklaces were heavily inspired by Spanish designs which were imported during this time, and each little bead is referred to as 'granada' or pomegranate- when you look up close at the details you can see why! The piece has also drawn inspiration from nature, with the cannetille detailing forming a wreath-like detail around a central rose that rests behind glass, as well as an intricately designed butterfly.

This breathtaking necklace is, literally speaking, a museum-worthy piece, with a similar piece featuring in an exhibition in the The New York Metropolitan Museum of Art* named 'Crossroads: Empires and Emporia'. Necklaces such as this were a display of wealth, and were passed down through the generations with very few authentic pieces remaining today. This is an incredible find indeed!

*https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/40553  

There is also a similar piece to the pendant pictured here: in https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2020/small-wonders-early-gems-and-jewels/spanish-circa-1700-reliquary-pendant 

SKU: X5285

Item Details
Super Rare

ERA: Georgian, c.1820.

MEASUREMENTS: Chain is 26" or 66cm long.
Pendant drop is 26mm long x 21.5mm wide.
Beads graduate from 3mm to 6mm in diameter.
Weight: 23.1g.

MATERIALS:  Test as 18ct Gold.

PACKAGING: Your order will be gift-wrapped free of charge in a Lillicoco cardboard box made from recycled materials, tied with a ribbon. 

Condition

VERY GOOD. This is an absolutely exquisite Georgian 18ct Gold beaded Tambourine Alfajor necklace! This beautiful necklace has lasted impeccably over the years, and when you think that she is over 200 years old it's quite the feat. The beads have all been securely strung on what is most likely silk. The beads themselves have lasted tremendously well, and we can't see any damage to the beads. The base of the piece features a gorgeous butterfly constructed using a method called cannetille, fine Gold work with gives a lace-like appearance. 

The base pendant is gorgeous, and contains within it a sweet rose encased in glass. The glass on one side of the pendant has sunken slightly, but it remains secure and is only on one side not the other. The Gold has retained a gorgeous colour, bright and saturated in hue, making this a must-have for your collection! 

Shipping

All orders are shipped using DHL express and are securely padded in transit, with full tracking and insurance for your peace of mind. Alternate couriers are available by special request.

  • FREE EXPRESS DELIVERY on all orders worldwide!
  • NEXT-DAY delivery to the UK and EU
  • Delivery to the USA in TWO WORKING DAYS
  • Orders placed by 1pm (GMT) will be dispatched the same day

RETURNS:

You can return your item for a full refund for any reason by simply getting in touch to let us know within 14 days of receiving it.

INCLUDED WITH YOUR ORDER:

This item will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a Lillicoco presentation box, tied up with a pink ribbon. You’ll also receive a handwritten information booklet and free polishing cloth too!

Please message us or call +44(0)117 925 4798 if you have any questions!

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