Art Nouveau Citrine Glass Festoon Necklace

Sometimes the most beautiful things come out of a revolution and this gorgeous necklace is no exception!

In the late 1700s, as proponents of the Enlightenment Period began to buck the exorbitant lifestyles of the aristocracy, a new movement in fashion began to take shape. It was one that reflected the new morals and philosophies of the period -- such as an emphasis on knowledge and human happiness.

The Neoclassical era, as it became known, took inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman works of art -- trading in powdered wigs and restricting, tight-fitting clothing, for flimsy, curve-hugging feminine silhouettes with plunging necklines reminiscent of ancient Greek goddesses.

Naturally, with this new style of dress came the demand for a new style of jewelry and thus the festoon necklace was born.

A suitable form of ornamentation for a lady's décolletage, the festoon necklace was designed to mimic a garland of flowers, ribbons or leaves. It is often characterized by having multiple cascading chains, swags, beads or drops arranged in a draped fashion.

This gorgeous swag necklace hails from the early 1900s, when the more dainty, delicate festoon style made a resurgence in popularity.

Crafted in dreamy, sinuous brass, this statement piece features warm, faceted citrine glass centerpieces adorning each curvaceous link with sun-kissed teardrops dangling below. A dazzling organic. stylized drop draws in the eye. 

A gold filled tube clasp and an extra length of chain have been added at some point to give the necklace a bit more length.