Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
An exquisite 14k yellow gold Edwardian lavallier necklace featuring vibrant, olive-green peridots and delicate, hand-set seed pearls. The central openwork cartouche is designed with geometric symmetry and floral undertones, suspended from a decorative chain with integrated gemstone stations and a dangling teardrop peridot drop.
Story
In the early 1900s, Newark, New Jersey was the jewelry-making capital of America, producing some of the finest gold work in the world. This necklace was crafted by Allsopp Brothers, whose signature key mark stamped on the reverse was a promise of exceptional quality. Its soft green peridots and delicate seed pearls perfectly captured the airy, feminine elegance of the Edwardian high-society garden party.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1887 by Henry and George Allsopp, Allsopp Brothers was one of Newark's premier manufacturing jewelers during the golden age of American jewelry production. Known for their high-quality 10k and 14k gold rings, lockets, and lavalliers, the firm used a distinctive key symbol as their maker's mark.
Condition & Value
The necklace appears to be in excellent antique condition. The 14k gold has a beautiful, warm patina, and the peridots show no major chips or abrasions. The seed pearls appear original and retain a lovely luster; however, care must be taken not to submerge them in water, as antique pearl settings are highly delicate.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.