Circa 1850 European Silver-on-Gold Diamond Rivière Necklace

Old-cut diamonds descend in a measured line, their fire softened by time.

This circa 1850 rivière necklace is fashioned in silver on gold, with a graceful procession of graduated old-cut diamonds totaling approximately 12 carats. Larger stones gather at the center in collet-style settings, then taper gradually toward the clasp, each separated by smaller diamond links that lend the necklace a delicate, articulated rhythm. The silver-topped gold construction gives the diamonds a cool white frame while preserving the warmth and substance of gold beneath. At 20.3 grams, it has the fine flexibility and close-to-the-neck elegance of nineteenth-century European jewelry.

A quiet river of old diamonds, moving from shadow into light.