Paste, the original rhinestone, dates back to the 1720s. The technique was developed by King Louis XV's court jeweler and was instantly popular with royalty and aristocrats for over a century thereafter. While we view rhinestones as a kind of faux gemstone, paste was highly regarded as an exciting new art form. This c1780 necklace certainly has a regal aesthetic, and may very well have been worn at court! The paste is of a unique shade of green uncommon in natural gems, alluring in its clarity and sparkle. They are set in beautifully aged 9k rose gold, in a flat lacy design that maximizes the necklaces impact. Rare natural pearls perfectly balance the piece with their lustre and add to its abundant look. The necklace measures 17 inches long. Its centerpiece measures 2 inches by 1 inch.

Inventory# P05140