This site has limited support for your browser. We recommend switching to Edge, Chrome, Safari, or Firefox.

Free Domestic Shipping & Extended Returns Until Jan. 8th

img-lifestyle
img-lifestyle
img-lifestyle
img-lifestyle

Antique Opal Rivière, ca 1810

$7,000
off
Color
Opal

Our Notes

If you were familiar with 19th century opal history, you would know that this rivière was made before opals fell out of favor in 1829, the year that Sir Walter Scott published his novel, Anne of Geierstein. In his book an opal amulet is blamed for being the cause of the protagonist’s untimely death. Printed books were the source of great interest and amusement, and they were sold far and wide, in a 19th century version of going viral. So beginning in 1829, this opal story would have been enough to make opal jewelry seem almost radioactive.

Prior to 1829, opal jewelry was coveted and even the paste version, called opaline, was highly sought after. This is a rare survival of a graduated rivière, with marble-like cabochon opals set in gold collets and with a removable drop. Emily surely hopes that its original owner did not read Scott’s book, and she continued to wear this beauty with nothing but positive associations!

After falling in love with Georgian opaline jewelry, Emily was thrilled to find an actual opal rivière. Whether you are an antique jewelry collector, historian, or literary buff, or all three, this piece belongs around your neck.

Ca 1810

Measurements, Materials & Care

Measurements
15 in x 1/2 in
Removable pendant: 3/4 in x 1/2 in

Materials
Cabochon Opals and Gold Settings.

Care

As our jewelry is worn, patinas will evolve, further personalizing them to each collector. Due to the nature of foiled jewelry, care should be taken in order to keep Larkspur & Hawk jewelry from becoming harmed. A few tips:

  • Remove jewelry when applying lotions, soaps and perfume
  • Remove jewelry before immersing hands in cleaning solvents or liquids
  • Please note that oxidation may eventually wear off of rings, then return naturally

Shipping & Returns

Larkspur & Hawk offers shoppers to receive and live with their new pieces. If for any reason you are less than thrilled with a purchase, it may be returned for a full refund, unless marked as final sale. To qualify, merchandise must be postmarked within 14 days of the customer’s receipt and be in the items’ original and unused condition. All returns must include the original receipt. Larkspur & Hawk is not responsible for items lost during shipping.

Have questions, need help, or don’t see your color?

Antique Opal Rivière, ca 1810

$7,000

Each piece is meticulously crafted by hand, bringing a historic practice to the modern day.

Love Necklaces & Rivières?

Shop All Necklaces & Rivières

Concierge Service

We’re here to help

Email us with any questions, big or small, seven days a week

Book an Appointment

Come visit us in our showroom and see the jewelry up close and personal

Shipping & Returns

Email us with questions or requests

Join our colorful world for 10% off your first order.

Cart

No more products available for purchase