Burmesesapphire and diamond necklace/tiara. Set to the centre with twenty two cushion shape old cutnatural unenhanced Burmese sapphires in open backclaw settings, ranging from smallest with a weight of 0.98 carats to largest with a weight of 1.87 carats, with a combined approximate weight of 32.94 carats, alternated by twenty two round old cut diamonds in open back rubover settings with a combined weight of 8.00 carats, embellished with sixty two round old cut diamonds in open back half rubover and grain settings with a combined weight of 11.00 carats and further enhanced by one hundred and sixty round old cut diamonds in open back half rubover and grain settings with a combined weight of 19.00 carats. The total approximate diamond weight is 38.00 carats, to an impressive articulated necklace featuring twenty two coronet cluster links with intricate curving claws, linked with circular openwork collets framed by polished borders, each link finely pierced with linear galleries and fancy backholing, fitted with an integrated push clasp and hinged safety latch, approximately 18.5" in length, featuring a removable section of nine coronet clusters which convert to an elegant openwork tiara with black velvet lined tiara frame, approximately 2.8cm in height at highest point. Testedplatinum, circa 1920, accompanied by Gemmological Certification Services report #78145-70 and fitted black box. Refer to gemmological report for a comprehensive list of individual sapphire weights.
The word 'tiara' is Ancient Greek in origin from ‘τιάρα’, meaning ‘headdress of Persian kings’. The name first denoting the high-peaked headdresses of Persian kings, which were encircled by 'diadems' or bands of white and purple decoration. It dates back to the 1550s in English but did not come to describe the bejewelled headwear of Western royalty until the 18th century. Now, it is used to describe almost every form of decorative head ornament.
The largest collection of tiaras in the world is said to belong to Queen Elizabeth II. She frequently wears a tiara for formal events or on state occasions, and also lends them out to female members of her extended family, particularly when they get married.
Our specialist selection of antique tiaras include exquisite creations from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras, completely original to the time period. Our antique tiaras date as far back as the 1890s, continuing through to the fabulous 1920s. They are adorned with natural unenhanced gemstones, such as the most precious of diamonds, rubies and sapphires; or rare and beautiful natural pearls, known for their lustre.
Creative jewellers also designed alterable tiaras which could be worn a number of ways, converting into necklaces, pendants, earrings, brooches and bracelets. Displaying astonishing skill and craftsmanship, these pieces continue to delight today with the myriad of ways they can adorn. Whatever the special occasion, we have options available for all tastes.
Burmese sapphire and diamond necklace/tiara, circa 1920.
Burmese sapphire and diamond necklace/tiara. Set to the centre with twenty two cushion shape old cut natural unenhanced Burmese sapphires in open back claw settings, ranging from smallest with a weight of 0.98 carats to largest with a weight of 1.87 carats, with a combined approximate weight of 32.94 carats, alternated by twenty two round old cut diamonds in open back rubover settings with a combined weight of 8.00 carats, embellished with sixty two round old cut diamonds in open back half rubover and grain settings with a combined weight of 11.00 carats and further enhanced by one hundred and sixty round old cut diamonds in open back half rubover and grain settings with a combined weight of 19.00 carats. The total approximate diamond weight is 38.00 carats, to an impressive articulated necklace featuring twenty two coronet cluster links with intricate curving claws, linked with circular openwork collets framed by polished borders, each link finely pierced with linear galleries and fancy backholing, fitted with an integrated push clasp and hinged safety latch, approximately 18.5" in length, featuring a removable section of nine coronet clusters which convert to an elegant openwork tiara with black velvet lined tiara frame, approximately 2.8cm in height at highest point. Tested platinum, circa 1920, accompanied by Gemmological Certification Services report #78145-70 and fitted black box. Refer to gemmological report for a comprehensive list of individual sapphire weights.