Georgian Garnet Rivière Necklace

Georgian garnet rivière necklace dating from early 19th century, circa 1800. The stones are deep, blood-red flat cuts in individual gold mounts and set over foil that reflects the light back out making them appear to glow from within. Susanne Gänsicke and Yvonne J. Markowitz, in their excellent book, Looking at Jewelry (2019), write of the rivière style: Meaning "river" in French, referring to the way the necklace flows gracefully around the neck. The rivière is short (usually 14 to 16 inches long) and strung simply with a line of faceted gems or rhinestones, often graduating in size and individually set. Era: Georgian, circa 1800 Stones: Garnet, variety almandine-pyrope Length: 16 inches Marks: None, tested as 9ct gold Condition: Good antique condition; clasp is a later replacement.