Fer de Berlin chain

A rare Berlin piece, a long guard chain, circa 1820. It is comprised of  swirling meanders and floral motifs, its gossamer like quality a testament to the skill and artistry of its caster.  Berlin iron jewellery is something of an oxymoron. Berlin iron jewellery casters managed to transform a black industrial substance into precious pieces of jewellery sought after by women of fashion across Europe. A contributing factor to its success was the popular young Queen Luise of Prussia introducing Grecian style dresses and Berlin iron jewellery to the Prussian court.  Neoclassical gowns were worn with Berlin long chains – a la grecque. This chain is 40 inches in length and can be worn as a single long chain or doubled. It is in immaculate, original and rust free condition.

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