Antique 18k gold lovers knot necklace victorian birmingham 1884 trombone paperclip chain 58.11g
Measurements:
• Length: 14.75 inches (37.5 cm)
• Weight: 58.11 grams
• Link width: 7.65 mm
• Link thickness: 2.3 mm
• Metal: Solid 18 karat gold links
• Era: Victorian
• Location: Birmingham, England
• Year: 1884
• Hallmarked and XRF tested
A remarkable Victorian-era 18 karat gold chain necklace dating to Birmingham, England in 1884.
This substantial antique necklace is crafted from elongated trombone links connected by elegant lovers knot motifs, creating a design that feels surprisingly modern despite being over 140 years old. The bold elongated links resemble today’s coveted paperclip chains, while the intricate lovers knots add unmistakable Victorian character and craftsmanship.
The necklace weighs an impressive 58.11 grams and measures approximately 14.75 inches in length, making it ideal as a collar-length statement piece. The links remain wonderfully thick and well-preserved, particularly at the connection points where antique chains commonly show wear. Finding Victorian chains with this level of integrity and original substance has become increasingly difficult.
Each link is individually hallmarked with the traditional British crown and 18 mark for 18 karat gold. One link carries the Birmingham anchor assay mark along with the date letter “R,” which our hallmark research confirms corresponds to the year 1884.
Hallmarks and markings include:
• Birmingham assay office anchor mark
• Date letter R for 1884
• Crown and 18 hallmarks throughout
• HF&S maker’s mark on the dog clasp
• XRF verified gold content
A unique feature of this necklace is its original antique bolt clasp. While the clasp tests approximately 12–13 karat gold, the necklace links themselves consistently test as solid 18 karat gold by XRF analysis. This is not uncommon with antique jewelry, where components were sometimes replaced or manufactured separately during the piece’s lifetime.
For complete transparency, an XRF report verifying the composition of the necklace will be provided to the purchaser.
The combination of heavy gold weight, confirmed 1884 Birmingham hallmarks, beautifully executed lovers knots, and excellent preservation makes this a scarce collector’s example of Victorian gold jewelry. It is equally suited for collectors of antique gold, lovers of historic jewelry, or anyone seeking a distinctive statement necklace with genuine age and provenance.