An elegant and beautiful hand-faceted, hand-knotted antique French Jet opera bead necklace from the 1800s. Radiant matched deep black beads and a very wearable length. May be worn with the clasp in the front or back (see photos). Perfect for day or evening. 
Heart-shaped silver and paste clasp.
 
French Jet is a type of glass that was either moulded or hand-carved in France to create a less-expensive alternative to the English Whitby Jet in the Victorian Era. Though already fashionable in the Georgian Era, black “mourning jewelry” became all the rage throughout Europe when Queen Victoria lost her beloved Prince Albert and wore jet jewelry in his honour. Today, antique jet jewellery pieces made of Whitby Jet and its counterparts such as French Jet, Vulcanite & Bog Oak are highly desirable as sophisticated and elegant statement pieces. Their sentimental histories add to their allure.
 
MATERIAL:
Glass 
 
AGE: 
1800s 
 
CONDITION: 
Very good – surface wear commensurate with age and use
 
SIZE: 
L 45 cm 
 
WEIGHT:
39.24g
 
Please read descriptions and inspect photos carefully, paying careful attention to size and weight. Due to the age of antique and vintage jewelry, minor abrasions and wear of finishes is normal and appreciated. All items have been tested to be in working/usable condition, unless otherwise stated. Please take care to understand safe cleaning methods for each type of gem and metal. Jewelry pieces are carefully wrapped, ribboned and shipped in an elegant black box, or a leatherette case for larger items.