Estate 1990s 18K Yellow Gold 2 Carat Opal and Diamond Pave Double Chain Necklace

This 1990s 18 karat yellow gold necklace holds an approximately 2-carat oval opal sideways between two fine chains. One edge of the opal is cut in a wave, and ten diamonds fill the curve like white water breaking against the stone’s green and blue.

The opal’s wave-shaped edge meets the diamonds closely enough that the stone and diamonds share one bezel. The color comes from microscopic silica spheres packed in rows. Light splits as it passes between them, so the green and blue shift every time the pendant moves. The diamonds are single cut, an older, simpler cut with 17 or 18 facets instead of a brilliant’s 57 or 58, which gives small stones a clean, bright flash.

Two strands of rolo chain attach at each side of the pendant, which keeps it level instead of letting it flip, and the short length lets it rest at the base of the neck.

Condition: Very Good

Era: Modern, 1990s

Metal: 18K yellow gold, stamped 750 and “N”

Center stone(s): 1 Opal, oval with carved edge, approximately 2 carats, blue-green play-of-color

Gemstones: 10 Diamonds, single cut, F/G color, VS clarity

Setting: Bezel-set (opal), pavé-set (diamonds), east-west orientation

Dimensions: Pendant bezel 18.86 x 12.22 millimeters

Length: 15.25-inch chain, double-strand rolo

Weight: 10.70 grams