This exquisite antique diamond and ruby garland necklace is a superb example of turn-of-the-century jewellery craftsmanship, likely of French or Continental European origin, and dating to circa 1900–1910. Measuring 18 inches in length, this exceptional piece captures the romantic elegance of the Belle Époque period, rendered in the refined and feminine Garland Style.
 
Crafted in silver-topped gold, the necklace features a harmonious composition of symmetrical swags, five diamond-set bows, and three ruby and diamond target motif drops. At the heart of each drop sits an old cut diamond, surrounded by calibre-cut rubies, a desirable red colour with a slight purplish undertone- a striking visual that blends neoclassical inspiration with graceful early modern design.
 
Gemstone & Metal Details:
Total diamond weight: Approx. 7.09 carats
Diamond type: Predominantly old European cuts, bright and well-matched, some showing natural inclusions and minor age-related girdle nibbles. A few stones exhibit lower tables and less pronounced open culets, indicating transitional characteristics in a handful.
Ruby detail: Finely cut calibre rubies, well-matched in a saturated purplish-red hue
Metal composition: Silver front, approx. 12ct yellow gold back, with some 18ct gold and platinum repairs, and a 15ct gold clasp (possibly a slightly later replacement)
 
Intricately set with an estimated 7.09 carats of antique diamonds, the necklace is embellished with fine bead settings on the smallest diamonds and soft milgrain detailing on the others (some of which are gently worn with age), and articulated garland sections that allow for fluid, elegant movement on the neckline.
 
The diamonds—true to antique cutting techniques—exhibit a charming hand-cut quality, with variation in facet geometry that adds life and depth to the overall sparkle. Their fire is enhanced by the silver-topped setting, a technique commonly used in high-end French Belle Époque jewellery to maximise brilliance.

This necklace remains in good antique condition, with minor restorations sensitively undertaken using platinum and 18ct gold to reinforce structural elements. A few stones appear to have been professionally replaced or reset in the past, preserving the original aesthetic.

A rare and collectable antique necklace, this piece bridges the romance of the Belle Époque with the earliest signs of modernity in diamond cutting. Ideal for antique jewellery collectors, luxury bridal styling, or as a timeless investment piece, this garland-style treasure offers both historical provenance and enduring elegance.