A late Victorian opal and diamond tiara

A late Victorian opal and diamond tiara

Description

A late Victorian opal and diamond tiara/necklace, consisting of seven knife-edge gold bars graduating from the centre, each set with two round cabochon-cut opals and an old-cut diamond in-between, the bars connected with six diamond-set arches each arch with a diamond-trefoil and a round cabochon-cut opal within, terminating on each side with a small diamond and opal trefoil motif, the diamonds estimated to weigh 2.9 carats in total, all mounted in gold and silver, attached to silver-gilt tiara frame and accompanied by gold chain back section to convert to a necklace, circa 1890, measuring 4 x 14.5cm, gross weight 36.4 grams.

A unusual and lively late Victorian tiara. Tiaras were very much in fashion in the last two decades of the 19th century. Opals became popular companions of diamonds in this period. This shimmering tiara features mysterious iridescent opals, playfully glinting with pastel colours, and twinkling old-cut diamonds, complementing each other beautifully. The gemstones are set in a pattern of arches, which flow gradually above trefoil motifs. As with most tiaras of the period, this piece can be detached from its frame and worn as an eye-catching necklace.