Mastery of Design: The Cory Turquoise Necklace, 1820-30

Turquoise and Pearl Necklace with Gold Chains
1820-1830
Made in England.
The Victoria & Albert Museum

I don’t think this necklace could be any more “Georgian.” Here, we see a necklace of gold, pavé-set with turquoises and half pearls. Each section of the necklace is linked with gold chains.


Turquoise was a beloved material in jewelry of the 19th century and was assigned great symbolism. The bright blue color reminded the wearer of the flower forget-me-nots, which signified true love in the language of flowers. Turquoise jewelry was a popular gift to bridesmaids and brides alike. The stone often signified the fidelity of a married couple. In 1840, Queen Victoria gave her twelve bridesmaids turquoise brooches in the shape of a Coburg eagle, in honor of Prince Albert's German family.