The stomacher is perhaps one of the most misunderstood jewels in the dowry; most often broken down when the last will-and-testament was delivered, fought over by women of fine breeding, and frequently sold for parts, the stomacher is the elusive renegade of antique fashion. 

Most commonly owned by women of noble stations, the stomacher was a gown embellishment that cascaded down the bodice of a dress. Herein, we have an extremely rare mid 18th century example featuring 17 table cut diamonds in puckering rub over/pinched settings that celebrate the Giardinetti motif that was quite popular during the period. I believe the craftspersonship to be English, in the Ibero-Spanish style. In keeping with the dating of the jewel, this one does not have a brooch back, but rather, ribbon fittings to be sewn on to a gown, or attached to a ribbon for the neck. 

One of the extremely special details of the piece is the use of table cut diamonds. Most diamonds of this period were rose cut, as are the small ones that decorate the leaves and floral elements around the larger diamonds- but the 17 table cuts are each extremely clean, and hearken back to the mideival point-diamond setting style, indicating both a knowledge of revival in the craftspersonship, and a budget for stones with notable clarity. A noble jewel that is worthy of a fine collection. 

The image index includes the Walters Museum stomacher of paste, from the early 18th c, and a painting of Elisabeth Farnese, queen of Spain by Miguel Jacinto Meléndez, in 1719, wearing a similar stomacher of a far grander scale. 

Materials & Features: 18ct gold, sterling, diamonds

Age/Origin: 1760 English 

Measurements: 22.5grams, 4.75" length 

Condition: Excellent condition. Outstanding for her age! Truly a one-of-a-kind find. 

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.