A truly exceptional early 19th century French citrine rivière necklace, set throughout with sixteen beautifully graduated oval-cut citrines of remarkable scale and colour, each framed by intricate cannetille goldwork and joined by finely modelled wild rose links.
 
Dating to circa 1825-1840, this piece embodies the refined craftsmanship of the late Georgian/early Victorian transition, where traditional rivière designs were elevated through elaborate goldsmithing. Each citrine is individually collet-set within delicately worked borders of granulation and repoussé detail, creating a rich, textured surface that contrasts beautifully with the luminous golden stones.
The citrines themselves are of superb quality; vibrant, glowing cairngorm tones with generous depth and beautifully proportioned facets that catch the light with a soft, liquid warmth. The graduating layout draws the eye to the impressive central stone, measuring approximately 22 x 17 mm, giving the necklace a striking yet balanced presence when worn.
 
Measuring approximately 16.75 inches in length, the necklace sits beautifully at the collarbone - perfect worn alone as a statement piece, or layered effortlessly with longer chains for a more contemporary look.
 
Of particular note is the exquisite continuity of design throughout, including the clasp, which is seamlessly integrated and set with a matching citrine, maintaining the rhythm and artistry of the piece without interruption - a hallmark of high-quality early craftsmanship.
 
Hallmarks to the clasp include the French ram’s head, used between 1819-1838 to denote 18ct gold, alongside a maker’s lozenge. Additional owl marks indicate the piece was later re-imported into France and re-assayed post-1893, a common practice for fine jewels that travelled internationally.
 
A rare and highly collectable example of French cannetille jewellery, this is a piece that sits firmly at the intersection of technical mastery and wearable beauty, as striking layered into a modern neckmess as it is worn alone as a refined antique collar.