Naturalpearl and diamond tiara/necklace/bracelet. Set with twenty seven round natural saltwater pearls, approximately 9.8 to 5.4 mm in diameter, further set with six round old cutdiamonds in open backrubover settings with a combined weight of 2.40 carats, embellished with seven drop shape briolette cut diamonds in bead settings with a combined weight of 4.00 carats, further set with one hundred and seven round old cut diamonds in open back rubover settings, fifty one forming the tiara band, fifty six forming the bracelet, with a combined weight of 21.70 carats. The total approximate diamond weight is 27.90 carats, to an impressive articulated necklace, featuring fringes of graduating pearls interspersed between festoons of pearl and diamond highlights, the diamond set band of the necklace composed of a front and rear section, joined together with slipper hooks, further set with a natural pearl on each side, the diamond set band continuing to reverse and terminating with a secure push clasp with safety catch, with millegrain borders and collets featuring openwork galleries and circular backholing, necklace approximately 17" in length, featuring a removable front-facing section which converts to an elegant openwork tiara with black velvet lined tiara frame, approximately 6.3cm in height at highest point, reverse-facing removable section forming a bracelet with a centerpiece of three natural pearls and with secure push clasp and safety clasp, bracelet approximately 8.3" in length. Testedplatinum, circa 1920, accompanied by Gemmological Certification Services report #78156-71 and fitted black box.
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.
Natural pearl and diamond tiara/necklace/bracelet, circa 1920.
Natural pearl and diamond tiara/necklace/bracelet. Set with twenty seven round natural saltwater pearls, approximately 9.8 to 5.4 mm in diameter, further set with six round old cut diamonds in open back rubover settings with a combined weight of 2.40 carats, embellished with seven drop shape briolette cut diamonds in bead settings with a combined weight of 4.00 carats, further set with one hundred and seven round old cut diamonds in open back rubover settings, fifty one forming the tiara band, fifty six forming the bracelet, with a combined weight of 21.70 carats. The total approximate diamond weight is 27.90 carats, to an impressive articulated necklace, featuring fringes of graduating pearls interspersed between festoons of pearl and diamond highlights, the diamond set band of the necklace composed of a front and rear section, joined together with slipper hooks, further set with a natural pearl on each side, the diamond set band continuing to reverse and terminating with a secure push clasp with safety catch, with millegrain borders and collets featuring openwork galleries and circular backholing, necklace approximately 17" in length, featuring a removable front-facing section which converts to an elegant openwork tiara with black velvet lined tiara frame, approximately 6.3cm in height at highest point, reverse-facing removable section forming a bracelet with a centerpiece of three natural pearls and with secure push clasp and safety clasp, bracelet approximately 8.3" in length. Tested platinum, circa 1920, accompanied by Gemmological Certification Services report #78156-71 and fitted black box.