Description
This antique pietra dura style micromosaic pendant necklace dates from the Victorian Era. It depicts a tiny flower cluster fashioned of tesserae, the name given to the minuscule tiles used in micro-mosaics. The center motif is assembled in a sunstone background, which is clear glass filled with tiny copper flakes that sparkle in the light.
The tiny flowers are beautiful in color, detail, and variety. This technique requires great expertise. The rose is made of cane glass. There are tiny green leaves scattered around. It is very pretty and well-made.
The pendant measures 1 3/4 inches tall including the ring and the dancing drop. It is 3/4 of an inch at the widest point and 1/4 of an inch deep at the center.
The cabochon is flat and measures approximately 17 mm tall by 14 mm wide. It is framed by a delicate twisted rope.
The vintage chain is from the first half of the 20th Century. It is 1.2 mm wide with tight curb links. It drapes very nicely.
There are no marks on the pendant. The beautiful, high-quality chain is marked 1/10 14k GF which is twice the gold content of most gold filled. It looks like solid gold. The marks are raised on a tiny round metal tag which is soldered to the chain. This is an uncommon technique to use for a tag as it is very difficult to accomplish.
The condition is very good and consistent with age. There is a slight loss of gold to the high points of the pendant. It is not obvious to the naked eye. The chain is in excellent condition.
This antique pietra dura style micromosaic pendant necklace weighs approximately 4.7 grams. Both the chain and pendant were carefully tested.