Lace Mother of Pearl Necklace (Sterling Silver)

This delicate Sterling Silver necklace is part of our new National Portrait Gallery jewellery collection; it features an eye-catching double disc pendant.

Beautifully handcrafted, the delicate silver lace disc is combined with an underlay of mother-or-pearl: the two discs are hung on a single finding but remain separate so that the mother-of-pearl can move freely. The delicate lace pattern is inspired by a National Portrait Gallery painting of Mary Herbert, the sister of courtier, soldier and poet Sir Philip Sydney and his literary collaborator. Lace ruffs and collars were very fashionable at the Tudor court.