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About the BrioletteRETURN TO: Austrian & Czech Glass Crystal Beads & DropsA briolette is a three dimensional rounded flat teardrop with or without facets. The bottom of the stone is large and rounded while the top narrows to a point which is used for placing the stone in ornaments. The most popular creations are briolette earrings and necklaces. This splendid gemstone shape was once cherished by charismatic Indian monarchs of the medieval era who displayed glittering emerald, ruby and sapphire gems with a rounded teardrop shape on their turbans and flowing robes. French traders brought this shape to Europe and called it the briolette, pronounced bree-oh-lay. As a sign of the burgeoning prestige of this design, Napoleon gave a magnificent diamond briolette necklace to Queen Marie Louise. This jewel is now on display in the Smithsonian. Briolette became very fashionable amongst the wealthy in Europe from the time of Napoleon through the 17th century. Their popularity faded into the 18th century. Today, this difficult to acquire gemstone and crystal shape is seeing a vigorous resurgence in interest. The resplendent and sparkling display of color and light from briolette is unmatched by any other stone shape. Where all other contours are designed to reflect light and color through one side of the stone, briolette are imaginatively conceived to show off every side of the stone. A treat for the eyes.
SUGGESTED BIRTHSTONES USING AUSTRIAN CRYSTAL BEADS: January - Garnet
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