Sterling Silver Modernist Lapis Lazuli Necklace
A striking sterling silver Modernist necklace featuring a wonderfully sculptural asymmetric pendant set with three faceted lapis lazuli stones. The dramatic architectural form, combined with the intense blue of the lapis, gives this piece a distinctly mid-century studio-jewellery character.
Details
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Date: Circa 1960s–1970s
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Style: Modernist / Mid-Century
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Material: Sterling silver
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Stone: Lapis lazuli
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Design: Abstract asymmetric sculptural pendant
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Setting: Three individually set faceted lapis lazuli stones
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Necklace: Rigid silver collar
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Length: 40cm end to end
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Pendant Dimensions: 6 x 7cm
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Fastening: Hook fastening
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Marks: 925
- Origin: Modernist
Condition
Great vintage condition, with gentle signs of age and wear consistent with its period.
The silver displays areas of natural patination and surface wear, while the lapis lazuli stones retain their wonderful deep blue colour. As a natural stone, variations and inclusions within the lapis are part of its individual character.
Please refer closely to the photographs, which form part of the description.
History
Modernist jewellery developed particularly strongly during the middle decades of the twentieth century, when independent jewellers increasingly rejected traditional, highly decorative forms in favour of abstraction, asymmetry and sculptural design.
Rather than simply providing a setting for precious stones, Modernist designers treated the entire piece of jewellery as a miniature work of art. Silver was particularly popular with studio jewellers because its malleability allowed them to experiment with dramatic architectural forms and unusual textures.
Lapis lazuli, treasured since antiquity for its extraordinary ultramarine colour, was particularly effective when combined with silver. Here, three faceted lapis stones are incorporated directly into the flowing abstract composition rather than arranged in a conventional symmetrical setting.
The result is a wonderfully individual piece that sits somewhere between jewellery and sculpture.
Heritage House Note
A fabulous piece of Modernist design. We particularly love the contrast between the strong architectural silverwork and those three flashes of intense lapis blue. Bold without being overly elaborate, this is the sort of vintage necklace that can completely transform a very simple outfit.
