Antique Cannatille Chain Necklace in 18K Gold

A rare heirloom of masterful goldwork.

Cannatille is one of those nearly forgotten techniques that makes you fall in love with antique jewelry all over again. Born in the early 1800s and treasured during the Georgian and early Victorian eras, cannatille takes filigree to another level. Think impossibly fine gold wires, hand-twisted into tiny spirals, rosettes, and beads. Each detail was coaxed into place by a master jeweler, often working under magnification, with the kind of patience and precision that feels almost devotional. These delicate touches weren’t just decorative, they were a mark of exceptional skill and quiet luxury. Today, finding a piece with intact cannatille work is rare, and finding one you can actually wear and enjoy? Even rarer.

This breathtaking 18k yellow gold necklace is a true testament to the artistry of antique goldsmiths. At 28 inches long and weighing a generous 35.1 grams, it feels substantial in the hand and on the skin, luxurious without being ostentatious. What makes this necklace truly exceptional is the intricate cannatille beads that fully composed the entire chain. 

The chain is finished with an exquisite cannatille clasp, and secured with a hidden safety latch for added peace of mind. Its fluid drape and rich, warm glow make it equally stunning worn solo or layered with a pendant. While a few of the fine cannatille beads have been lost to time, they are nearly imperceptible unless studied closely and do not detract from the piece’s structural integrity or visual impact.

This is not just a necklace, it is a piece of history, a rare surviving example of a near-lost craft. For the collector, the romantic, and the lover of old-world beauty, it is an heirloom to cherish and pass on.

Details

• Metal: 18K yellow gold

• Weight: 35.1 grams

• Length: 28 inches

• Width of chain: 4mm