Circa the Victorian era, this 14k gold chain consists of an alternating long rectangular link and a series of fettered links. The rectangular link has embossed scrolling foliate details on it. The embossed details are flat against the surface but with little rows of tiny dots behind them; the contrasting textures allow the embossed foliate to read as a glimmering reflective surface. Between each rectangular link is a series of fettered, knot-like links. Five fettered links are connected by four circular links with a version of the embossed details, mirroring the scrolling foliate on the rectangular links. The result is a complex, beautiful weave of intricate links and a myriad of visual textures that gracefully play off of each other throughout the chain.
The chain opens with a hidden clasp that slides into one of the rectangular links. The clasp is denoted by a turquoise cabochon on its push button—a detail that is both functional and adds a sweet pop of color to the chain. A safety chain adds another layer of security.
The piece is unmarked but acid tests as 14k gold. The piece has been bloomed—meaning that when it was first made it was plated with a higher karat of gold, a traditional treatment that was sometimes used in Victorian jewelry-marking. The bloom gives the piece the warmth and rich glow that is associated with high karat gold.
The chain has a wonderful long length of 50.5”. It can be worn long or wrapped two or three times around the neck for a luxurious look. It weighs 72.6 grams.
