We found these beautiful swallows last May in Paris on a crumbling old sample card. The accompanying notes indicate the pieces were originally created in 1879. The graceful, curved lines of the wings and body and the astonishing detail in the individual feathers embody the kind of top-quality craftsmanship we look for in the best pieces from this era. These are two different birds (L+R). We hand-cast them in our studio in an antiqued 18kt rose gold plated over sterling silver. Depending on the light, the color of the piece can change from a coppery rose to a warm bronze. From the mouths of the birds, a short run of fine quality pink cultured pearls runs down to meet with a large faceted super-quality rutilated quartz briolette. This is a bright, crystal clear gemstone with many fine threads of black rutilation and measures 19mm tall. Above the birds is a copper chain embellished with silver cultured pearls, and a rose gold vermeil lobster clasp. Necklace measures 16 3/4 to 17 5/8 inches with a copper extender ending in a silver pearl. Matching earrings are not included, but are available in another auction.
