Necklace of Paste Brilliants

Date1750-1785

MediumSilver, glass, foil, gold (gilding)

DimensionsOL: 9 1/4" OD:(pendent) 5"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1960-878,1

DescriptionNecklace of paste brilliants set in silver in the form of a series of six-petal flower heads each with a leaf and two buds below strung together; loop for ribbon tie at either end; large central flower head with large pendant hanging from it; pendent takes form of large double bow knot at top with cluster of brilliants at center; two flower heads, small bow and teardrop cluster hangs from it; pendant hooked to necklace so that it can be removed and worn as a brooch or clip.
Label TextAlthough they may look like diamonds, less expensive paste stones set in silver created a brilliant effect in this matching set of necklace and earrings for pierced ears. Paste jewelry was set with foil-backed glass “stones” cut and shaped to imitate gems. The necklace has loops at the ends for ribbons to tie around the neck. The box has padded interior wells for housing the three matching pieces of jewelry when not worn.

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