Antique Edwardian Jade Bead Necklace 1.00ct in Platinum

A stylish 70cm long necklace from the Edwardian period, featuring graduated beads of verdant green jadeite. The exceptional pure green colour tone of these beads is kept clearly in focus with a small platinum barrel clasp set with 1.00ct of old cut diamonds. Jadeite is a gemstone that has been revered and adored in the Chinese culture for thousands of years, and is said to attract good luck and friendship. The Edwardian period only lasted for nine years (1901-1910), but was an incredibly important era for jewellery design. Hugely intricate pieces, showcasing the very best diamonds and coloured gemstones, were worn with elaborate fashions from the most famous French couture houses. Driven by the explosion of court life, steered by the fashion conscious King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, this was a truly special time. Long necklaces were particularly favoured, as they worked well with the corseted silhouettes of the period and could be worn long as a single strand, or shorter in a double row. Jadeite was also often paired with pearls, as the two colours conveyed a strong and striking look. Showcasing the much sought after pure green colour, this is a true statement piece that instantly brings to mind the newness of spring. The popularity of jadeite has soared in the past few years, with examples seen on the red carpet and featuring in the collections of both the Duchess of Cambridge and the Countess of Wessex.