This wonderful Art Nouveau lavalier pendant shows off some of the Nouveau traits which became tenets of the movement- to be guided by nature, to use organic materials, not to be bound by tradition or symmetry, and to explore new techniques. This pendant was crafted in 14k yellow gold, but it looks richer because it was treated with an acid wash that darkens the gold and gives it a velvety patina. Dangling front and center is a sizable and lustrous natural freshwater river Pearl, most likely found in an American River (several in the South East US produced them). The flowing gold work is set with two round green Garnets, or Demantoids, which would have been a newly discovered gem when this was made. While the pendant is not symmetrical, it has beautiful lines, almost like stylized acanthus leaves, which draw the eye toward the Pearl in an elegant way. Accompanied by original 18” 14k chain. This is a rare piece, perfect for the antiques collector or lover of Art Nouveau decorative objects.