When I am with you, we stay up all night. When you're not here, I can't go to sleep. Praise God for those two insomnias! And the difference between them.
Rumi
19th century portuguese demi parure
A nineteenth century Portuguese demi parure, set in silver, composed of a pendant and matching pair of earrings set with topaz paste and quartz.
Eighteenth century Portuguese jewelry reached a zenith of excellence and attractiveness hitherto unparalleled. Certain distinctive patterns are observed, particularly the girandole, named for an ornamental branched candlestick, consisting of three drops suspended from a decorative central piece. Some pieces were set with colored stones such as chrysoberyl, topaz, and amethyst, while others were set with paste or colorless crystals, known in Portugal as 'minas novas.' The stones are often magnificently varied in size and shape, and these pieces are rare and highly prized by knowledgeable collectors.