Antique Rose-Cut Diamonds and Pearls Opera Necklace

This necklace is an extraordinary piece of Portuguese jewellery history.

It was originally purchased at the renowned Branca de Brito shop in Lisbon. 
Known as a "jeweller to the elite", Branca de Brito was a cornerstone of Portuguese luxury for over 100 years. 
This piece comes complete with its original, signature green velvet-lined presentation case, stamped with the jeweller's prestigious mark.

This breathtaking 108cm (42.5") "Opera" length pearl necklace is a rare marriage of Victorian grandeur and Art Deco elegance. 
Featuring a magnificent hand-crafted 19th-century clasp and a substantial strand of warm champagne pearls, this piece is a versatile heirloom designed to be worn long, doubled, or knotted in the classic "Flapper" style.

The centrepiece of this necklace is a masterful floral-motif box clasp. 
Authentic "Silver on Gold" technique, where a layer of silver is bonded to a high-carat gold base - a hallmark of high-end antique jewellery before the use of platinum. Inlaid with forty two hand-cut rose-cut diamonds that provide a soft, romantic glow.
Features a prominent 9mm pearl with exceptional lustre and blue-pink overtones, likely natural saltwater given the era of the mounting.
Equipped with the original tongue-and-groove mechanism and a lateral safety bar for secure wear.
Originally designed for a triple-strand "collar," the clasp features three loops on each side, adding significant historical character.

The pearls are high-quality early 20th-century saltwater pearls (likely Akoya). 
They exhibit authentic growth characteristics, including subtle "circled" horizontal rings and natural skin dimples, confirming their organic origin.
Their colour is a stunning, aged light champagne with deep orient.

Condition - the clasp retains its original, unpolished silver patina, which is highly desired by collectors. No missing stones (please refer to the photos).

Hallmarks - no hallmarks present, metals are acid tested.

Dimensions:
Length - 108cm end to end (excluding clasp)
Clasp size - 3,4cm x 3cm
Pearls ∅ - 7mm
Pearl ∅ on the clasp - 9mm
Diamonds - 42pcs, ∼0,03ct - 0,05ct each (∼1,26ct - 2,1ct total)
Weight - 99,56gr

Disclaimer:
As is standard with uncertified antique jewellery, all gemstone weights and metal fineness are estimated based on measurements and historical hallmarking. The pearls have not been X-ray tested for natural vs. cultured origin and is sold as a period-correct "real pearls".