A gorgeous 10 karat yellow gold slide necklace with an opal cabochon that dates back to the Victorian era. The necklace is a double circular link chain that measures approximately 44 inches long. At the end of the chain is a dog clip, from where one can attach a pendant or several charms. The slide on the chain is also made of 10 karats of gold and has some black enamel leaf-like motifs. On the back there is an ornate symmetrical motif engraving. There is scrolling gold work around the oval cabochon which measures approximately 9 mm x 13 mm and is 6mm deep. The opal gemstone is approximately 4 carats in weight. The necklace weighs approximately 27.6 grams, with a nice weight and good feel to it. The width of the chain is 3mm.
Opal gets its name from the Greek word of "opallios" which means a change of color. There is some super color play in this cabochon gemstone- with pink and lime green and bright yellow to violet. Opal is also the birthstone for the month of October. This slide necklace is a lovely gift for someone special, inherently romantic in nature, as the Victorians were known to be!
This piece is also a fine example of the excellent craftsmanship of the Victorian era. A slide necklace is a versatile and fashionable piece of jewelry. Because the necklace is so long the chain can be worn around the neck twice, or it can hang extra long. It's a lovely antique piece of jewelry that has a contemporary flair to it. In great condition. Circa 1890s.