Antique Australian 9ct Johnson & Simonsen Drop Pendant Necklace

$1,925.00
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Antique Australian 9ct Gold Necklace by Johnson & Simonsen

Antique Australian 9ct Gold Necklace: an exquisite Johnson & Simonsen drop pendant dating to circa 1900, In superb condition, it marries turn of the century provenance with contemporary elegance. At 126 years old, this necklace was made at the dawn of Australia’s federation era and embodies the refined restraint of the Edwardian period, measured, elegant and impeccably finished.

A Melbourne Maker of Distinction

Made by Melbourne jewellers Johnson & Simonsen, this necklace carries the quiet significance of Australian jewellery history. William Johnson and Herman Simonsen operated together from 1895 to 1914, before the firm continued as H. Simonsen Pty. Ltd. from 1914 to 1927.

Turquoise Blue Magnesite in Warm 9ct Gold

The design is beautifully simple: made in 9ct yellow gold, a slender drop, suspends with two turquoise blue magnesite cabochons with delicate black veining. The stones are dyed to achieve their vivid hue, their soft, cloud like colour set against warm gold to create a gentle, luminous contrast. The overall effect is soft and unforced, a study in proportion and purity of line.

Edwardian Restraint and Contemporary Elegance

This antique Australian 9ct gold necklace wears effortlessly with today’s wardrobe. Allow it to accent a long black evening gown for a formal moment when understatement is everything; pair it with a crisp white t-shirt for daytime ease; or let it complement a shirt, blazer and denim ensemble for relaxed evening dining. Its slim silhouette and restrained glamour make it singularly adaptable.

A Collectible Australian Antique Necklace

As a historical Australian piece from a distinguished maker, it is as collectible as it is wearable. Conserved with care, the necklace offers both provenance and practicality: a rare, wearable fragment of turn of the century craftsmanship that sits seamlessly within contemporary style narratives. This is jewellery that honours its past while defining a modern, refined present.

Necklace Details

Circa: 1900
Design Period: Edwardian
Origin: Australia
Jeweller: Johnson & Simonsen
Jeweller History: William Johnson & Herman Simonsen operated 1895-1914. The business changed names to H. Simonsen Pty. Ltd. from 1914 and operated until 1927.
Gemstone: Magnesite
Colour: Turquoise Blue with Black Veins
Treatment: Dyed
Design: Drop Pendant
Metal: 9ct Yellow Gold
Chain: Integral Fine Trace Link
Clasp: Original Bolt
Drop Pendant Length: 5.50 cm
Necklace Length: 39.00 cm

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Magnesite?
Magnesite is white to pale cream when natural. The blue colour in this Johnson & Simonsen Drop Pendant Necklace has been dyed, taking on a turquoise blue hue with a dark matrix veining.
Why has Magnesite been used in this necklace?
Magnesite is a unique stone selection for this high calibre piece. This necklace may have been commission for a client incorporating the gemstone from the client's own travels and adventures.
What is the value of Magnesite?
Magnesite itself is modestly valued as a gemstone and is prized mainly for its colour when dyed rather than intrinsic value. For this antique Australian 9ct gold necklace, the distinguished craftsmanship, provenance and maker eclipse the material value of the gemstone.
Where in the world is Magnesite found?
In the 1900s notable deposits of gemstone quality magnesite were found in Austria, Germany, Russia, North America, Brazil and South Africa.

Irene Byrne & Co

Each piece has been chosen for its rarity, craftsmanship, and timeless design, carrying meaning beyond its form and preserving stories worth telling.

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