Negligée

Négligée is a jewellery design in which two pendant elements hang from a central point, usually at different lengths.

The intentionally asymmetrical arrangement creates movement and an elegant draped appearance. The design became particularly fashionable during the Edwardian and early twentieth-century periods and was often set with diamonds, pearls or other gemstones.

Diamond négligée pendants and earrings are among the best-known examples. The two drops may be similar in design while differing in length, creating the characteristic uneven silhouette.

The style is closely associated with the delicate, refined jewellery of the early twentieth century and can be found in both antique and vintage pieces.

Period: Particularly Edwardian and early 20th century
Typical gemstones: Diamonds and pearls
Characteristic feature: Two unequal pendant elements