Antique French 18k Gold Long Guard Chain c. 1890
Banking is a relatively new idea. Before the 19th century most people wore their wealth. The original idea of the chain, for example, was that you could pay for something by taking a link off of your chain, be it gold or silver. Precious metal has always equalled money, it was a good idea then and it remains a good idea today. Now, I wouldn't recommend paying for your Moët with a link off of this gorgeous French chain, but I suppose you could if you had to!Honestly, everyone really needs to own one of these long gold chains. Preferable two or three, if you can swing it, but if you're limited to one, this one is a particularly good place to start. Intricate, glowing links with the feel of soft silk that only old French gold seems to achieve. This chain is completely hand made of large fancy links alternating with five small round links. Each link is individually hand soldered and the chain has a matching large round spring ring clasp which attaches to both ends and would originally have