Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Rose Gold and Niello Watch Chain

An antique Victorian watch chain with alternating rose gold and sterling silver and niello links. Circa 1880. Niello is an ancient type of decorative inlay in which the design is engraved in the metal base, usually silver. The engraving is then filled in with an alloy of metallic sulfides that become black when heated. The effect is a velvety black and silver pattern. Niello was revived in the nineteenth century and was especially used in Russia and France.

• Length: 17 1/2 inches