1910s Edwardian Platinum and 18k Gold Diamond Open Work Wheat Medallion Pendant Necklace

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Description

This stunning Edwardian medallion pendant is rendered in platinum and displays three sheaths of wheat. Behind them, is a cascading … Read more This stunning Edwardian medallion pendant is rendered in platinum and displays three sheaths of wheat. Behind them, is a cascading array of very thin platinum lines that give the piece an evocative beauty. The wheat is encrusted with antique diamonds, and at the base of the sheaths, there is a half-carat transitional cut diamond that makes an eye-catching focal point. The workmanship of this piece is truly exquisite: milgrain work adds shimmer to the wheat sheaths and lines, and a ribbon-esque element suggests a flowing, graceful motion. There is a sense of delicacy to this piece; the density of the platinum allows for the finest lines and details, while also being very sturdy. The smaller diamonds are single cut and bead set; the high level of craftsmanship is evident when looking at the back of the medallion, which has tiny openings for each diamond, allowing the light to shine through them, as well as an 18k gold band that encircles the back of the pendant.

The medallion hangs from an old style platinum chain with delicate, alternating links. The links pair nicely with the open filigree work of the Edwardian era, giving the entire piece a beautiful laciness. The medallion has a larger size—it is 1.75” across—and looks good on this longer chain, which balances the size of the pendent.

Wheat is symbolic of abundance, prosperity, wealth, fertility, and renewal. It represents the cycle of planting, growth, and harvest, and was often used as symbolism for marriage, as weddings are the beginning of a new life cycle.

The pendant contains approximately 1.10 carats of natural antique diamonds. The large transitional cut diamond is 5 mm across and 0.5 of a carat. There are 53 single cut diamonds that range in size from 1 - 2 mm, and have a carat weight of 0.6. The diamonds range in color from H-J and VS2- SL2 in clarity.

The medallion measures 1.75” across. The chain measures 24”. The piece weighs 19.1 grams. Unmarked but acid tests as platinum and 18K gold. See less