A YELLOW SAPPHIRE DIAMOND AND ENAMEL PENDANT
An exceptional yellow sapphire diamond and enamel pendant originates from 19th-century North India. This fine piece of antique Indian jewelry showcases the sophisticated metalworking and lapidary traditions of Rajasthan during the royal court period. Furthermore, Indian master goldsmiths combined precious stones with fine enameling to craft unique personal ornaments. Today, these pieces remain highly prized by collectors of historic Asian art.
Design of the Yellow Sapphire Diamond and Enamel Pendant
First, the yellow sapphire diamond and enamel pendant centers around a large, drop-shaped natural yellow sapphire of impressive scale. The upper portion of the gemstone is crowned with a vibrant ruby-red and white enamel cap shaped as flared lotus petals. In addition, an openwork gold surmount set with flat-cut lasque diamonds rests above the cap using traditional kundan setting techniques. Furthermore, a delicate green bead accent accents the base, creating a harmonious color balance across the entire structure.
Most importantly, the defining characteristic of this piece relies on its exquisite champlevé enamel (meenakari). Rajasthani artisans handcrafted the high-carat gold fittings with remarkable precision to complement the golden hues of the central gem. As a result, this sculptural arrangement creates a dramatic visual depth that highlights both the stone and the golden relief work. Consequently, combining high-carat gold enameling with natural gem drops remains a defining feature of regional royal jewelry production.
| Place of origin | North India |
| Date | 19th-century |
| Availability | US$ |
| Reference number | SO-000150 |
