Definition

Noun: A lavalliere is a piece of jewelry, specifically a jeweled pendant, designed to be worn on a chain around the neck.

Usage

A lavalliere is a type of necklace ornament. It is a singular, decorative item suspended from a chain.

Examples

• She wore a beautiful diamond lavalliere with her evening gown.
• The antique lavalliere was passed down through generations of the family.
• His gift to her was a delicate sapphire lavalliere.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used to describe a specific style of pendant that is often ornate and associated with formal or vintage fashion.
• In historical or costume contexts, a lavalliere might refer to a pendant popular during a specific era, such as the late 19th or early 20th centuries.

Variants and Related Words

• Lavalier (noun): An alternative spelling for lavalliere, with the same meaning.
• Pendant (noun): A more general term for a piece of jewelry that hangs from a chain worn around the neck. A lavalliere is a specific type of pendant.
• Necklace (noun): A piece of jewelry worn around the neck, which may or may not include a pendant like a lavalliere.

Synonyms

• Pendant
• Locket (when it is a pendant that opens)
• Choker (a different type of necklace that fits closely around the neck, not a synonym but a related item)

Notes

• The word is sometimes capitalized as "Lavallière," referencing its possible origin from the Duchesse de La Vallière, a mistress of King Louis XIV of France.
• It is a relatively formal and somewhat dated term, more common in descriptions of historical or fine jewelry than in everyday conversation. The more common modern term is simply "pendant."

Noun

1. jeweled pendant worn on a chain around the neck