A Three Row Seed Pearl Necklace,

the 191:194:201 seed pearls knotted to a rectangular clasp comprising of hairwork locket compartment within a border of split pearls, in yellow claw settings length 55cm By repute the necklace was given to English Governess, Sophia Higginbotham, by Tsar Nicholas I and Empress Alexandra, to mark her service as teacher of their daughter Grand Duchess Alexandrina (b.1825-d.1844). The necklace is believed to have a tiny lock of Alexandrina's (Adini's) hair plaited within the clasp. Thence by descent. NB: The pearls have not been laboratory tested. The necklace is in fair condition with discolouration to the clasp. We cannot guarantee the integrity of the string. It fastens with a tongue and box catch. It bears no hallmark nor stamp but in our opinion would test as gold. Gross weight 28.7 grams. CR made 23.09.22.