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Antique French Silver Diamond Tiara, Circa 1830, 181 Rose Cuts
About the Item
A rare, early 19th-century French diamond tiara / bandeau executed entirely in silver, set throughout with 181 hand-cut antique diamonds, predominantly old rose cuts. The design is composed of a succession of hinged foliate panels crowned by arched floral motifs—an elegant candlelight-era aesthetic associated with the late Georgian / early Victorian (Restoration) period, when diamonds were set exclusively in silver to heighten their glow by firelight.
The tiara measures 10 inches in length and weighs a substantial 85 grams. Circular terminal elements at each end were designed for a ribbon to be threaded through and secured at the rear with a knot. The jewel may be worn upright atop the head for a formal, regal presentation, or angled gently backward into the coiffure for a more relaxed, romantic effect—both period-correct modes of wear.
Most compelling is its original modular construction: the central ornament is fitted with a removable pin, allowing the tiara to separate into two balanced halves. This ingenious feature permits the jewel to be worn independently as dramatic ear pendants, as was customary for high court jewels of the era (a jeweler can readily supply appropriate ear wires).
To a degree rarely encountered, the tiara remains exceptionally sturdy and wearable, with no missing stones, no replacements, and no repairs—an extraordinary level of preservation for a jewel approaching two centuries of age. Each diamond is fully enclosed within silver settings of remarkable integrity; despite its age, not a single stone is loose, damaged, or later substituted.
The diamonds display the lively, characterful presence and soft, internal glow prized in antique rose cuts. A significant and highly refined jewel, suited to collectors of Georgian-era diamonds, historic bridal adornment, and rare convertible French court jewelry.
Construction Details:
Center pannel: 1.5 inches x 1.5 inches
End panel: 1.25 inches x 1.25 inches
Largest rose cut diamond in the center: 8.5 mm x 5.4 mm
Diamond: 118 in total ranging from 8.5 mm down to 1.25 mm
It's impossible to accurately provide you with a precise diamond carat total, but our Certified Professional Gemologist estimates the tiara to contain 8 -10 carats.
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