Bohemian Garnet Necklace Circa 1880s

A beautiful Bohemian garnet necklace featuring a chain series of diamond shaped clusters leading to a multi floral cluster centrepiece. Fitted and secured with a bolt-ring clasp.

Gemstone: Bohemian garnets

Metal: Silver Gilt 

Weight: 23.60 grams

Measurements: Length 45cm

Era: Victorian Circa 1880s

While garnets can come in a range of colours, true Bohemian garnets are dark red pyrope crystals, mined from the Bohemia region located in the present-day Czech Republic. Echoing the legacy of the Celtic “Boii” people, from whom Bohemia derives its name, this region boasts a heritage rich in gems and jewellery craftsmanship, tracing back to the early Iron Age. Early Celts adorned themselves with local garnets, while Germanic tribes in the 5th and 6th centuries coveted these precious stones. Nobility, royalty, and clergy alike prized garnets as personal ornaments, adorning themselves and embellishing liturgical and decorative objects.

Central to the allure of Bohemian garnet jewellery are its rose-cut gemstones, meticulously pavé set to resemble the luscious seeds of a pomegranate, evoking both luxury and sophistication. The 19th century saw Bohemian garnets ascend to new heights of popularity and they remained highly favoured throughout the Victorian era, these gems remained cherished, symbolising opulence and refinement.