The huge French paste gems on this antique frame are 9mm wide and 5mm deep, and 31 of them are firmly facet-set around this elongated oval frame. Old European cut stones, they are a dead-on mimic for diamonds. Not a single one is damaged. The frame still has the original beveled glass within and when I purchased it in France, it had this portrait miniature, a watercolor on card. I believe the portrait is early 1900, but the frame is older by several decades. Easel-back, the body of the frame is silver plate on heavy brass. Be inner bezel is a gold tone brass alloy, setting the silver-set stones off beautifully. Hanging loop and hinged easel stand are fully intact.
Very good to excellent condition, these are rare and all the more so in the huge cut gem size. The silver plate finish has a lovely aged patina, there is no damage at all to the cut stones. Faux diamonds, the French paste stones are legendary for brilliance. I would date this one c.1850-70, Napoleon III era. The portrait is rather incidental, though she's beautiful. The value is the frame. Full measurements noted on photos.
