Norwegian plique à jour bluebell necklace c.1900

A silver plique à jour bluebell necklace from Norway, dating back to the 1900s.
Plique à jour, the French term, translated from Latin as "SMALTA CLARA”, directly translates to translucent enamel, refers to a style of enameling in which transparent enamels are fused into the openings of a metal filigree, creating an effect reminiscent of stained glass. 

Originating in the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century, plique à jour differs from traditional enamel as it lacks a metal base behind, featuring only a delicate frame. Meticulous craftsmanship is essential to carefully apply the enamel within the frame, controlling temperature to achieve a thin, translucent effect akin to a clear window. Besides its translucency, plique à jour allows for the presentation of multiple colors and gradients. During the Art Nouveau period, it once again reached another peak of application. Due to its structurally fragile nature, well-preserved pieces are highly sought-after.

This necklace, with a silver base, features a structure of 11 connected inverted triangles. Adorning the top are two-leafed shapes of plique à jour enamel in a fresh green hue, while below, intense bluebell flowers dangle gracefully. Delicate stamens are visible within each flower, enhancing the overall charm. The piece features a rich color palette while maintaining a transparent texture, showcasing the intricate details within its elegantly simple construction.

The overall condition of the piece is good, exhibiting typical signs of oxidation and wear. The enamel remains intact, with only a few small hairlines in some parts of the plique à jour flowers. The unique clasp enhances the security of wearing. As the judgment of item condition can be subjective, please click and enlarge our photos to view more detailed condition information as a basis for judgment.