Opal White Porcelain Heart Chatelaine Scent Bottle Necklace - Adelaide Necklace

The history of perfume during the Regency Era is a fascinating subject and this delicate necklace pays homage to the creativity and workmanship of that time. Pristine white opal discs are hand linked to create an angelic necklace with filigree gold vermeil oval connectors stationed along the chain. The unique pendant is a blanc de chine porcelain heart-shaped chatelaine scent bottle with a stunning gold cartouche design (circa 1900). There are also a collection of amulets perched above on the finger ring, including a romantic Fleur de Lis charm, opal briolette, MOP quatrefoil and a whimsical Napoleonic Bee. Although the little glass stopper is missing - the fact that this romantic and fragile étuis has survived the years in such good condition is remarkable. The scent bottle pendant is easily removable and the delicate opal & filigree necklace would look beautiful layered with other necklaces or a dramatic statement worn against a dark colored dress. A perfect gift for a romantic Valentine Day surprise! Below is an excerpt from Candice Hearn’s blog - Regency World: The 18th century was a golden age for perfumes and perfume containers. Previous centuries had favored strong fragrances to mask the disagreeable odors of everyday life, and perfumes were usually made and dispensed by apothecaries. Though still a luxury item, the rage for perfume became almost frantic, and it was often difficult for the producers to meet the demands, even with significantly expanded crops of perfume-making plants. Many new techniques and ingredients were developed during this period to satisfy the insatiable demand for perfume. The rise of fashionable fragrance brought about new and equally fashionable ways to store it, display it, wear it, and use it. The finest porcelain factories produced bottles and flasks in every imaginable shape. Scent containers were also produced in glass, rock crystal, silver, gold, enamel, amber, ivory, alabaster, and many other materials. Size: 29 inches long / 4.25 inch pendant drop X 1.58 inches wide.