An unusual row of carved Victorian coral beads c.1880.
 
This lovely necklace has graduated coral beads each of which has been hand carved with a scrollwork desIgn. The coral is well matched and a good reddish colour with a little of the white seen at intervals. (this indicates that the coral has not been dyed).
 
The coral is probably Mediterranean in origin and may originally have been purchased as a 'grand tour' souvenir.
 
Gemstone quality coral of a deep reddish colour was considered by the Italians to bring good fortune to the wearer and was frequently brought back to Britain by Victorians returning from the 'Grand Tour' in the 19th century.
 
The beads have been professionally re-strung and knotted and have a gold bolt ring clasp.
 
Era: Victorian, 1839 - 1901
Measurements: Coral 5.5 - 11.8mm in diameter,
necklace 43.5cm in length
Hallmarks: Clasp 9ct gold