Gem set and diamond necklace

During the 19th and early 20th century we see a wave of interest into designs of the ancient world and this has enthusiasm continued well into the modern day. The silhouettes of these jewels are easily recognizable as being influenced by the Ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian world. The late 19th century saw the nearing completion of the Suez Canal, as well as the publication of archeologist Auguste Mariette’s papers detailing his excavations in the Nile valley. Both events acted as a springboard for a curiosity in all things Egyptian, providing jewellers with a rich source of inspiration. It is in this piece that we see pharaonic motifs such as the scarab used in combination with polychrome enamel decoration and coloured hardstone beads. The reverse is marked 14, possibly in connection to a Greek myth told by Plutarch, whereby the ancient Egyptian god Osiris was slain or drowned by the god Seth, who tore his corpse into 14 pieces, flinging them over Egypt.