SOLD--Antique 18K Micro Mosaic Floral Shield Pendant

The Grand Tour was a rite of passage starting in the late 17th Century. It continued for about 300 years, tapering off into obscurity around the turn of the 20th Century. A typical "Grand Tourist" would be an educated and wealthy Englishman, German, Scandinavian, or American. The trip was a method of architectural, cultural and social study. The itinerary could vary, but usually a Tour started in France and ended in Italy. It was common to collect various art, jewelry, and souvenirs to commemorate the trip. These items were usually sent home for loved ones, kept as mementos, or formed the basis of new life-long collections for the men who took the trip.

The term "micro mosaic" was coined by wealthy 20th-century collector Sir Arthur Gilbert in reference to Roman mosaics composed of little glass bricks called tessarae. These were sold as fine jewelry to Victorian ladies in the early and mid-19th century, when the tourism trade was at a peak in Rome.

Another enduring trend from the Victorian Era was the incorporation of the Language of Flowers, wherein every blossom and leaf imaginable held secret meaning. It was so commonly practiced that floral messages were incorporated into jewelry, with our pendant serving as such an example. Brightly colored stylized posies stand out against a white background, all constructed of tessarae. Multi-hued leaves accent pink and red roses, signifying love, and a blue forget me not blossom appears in the lower left of the composition. Two tiny stars decorate the shield shaped setting, which has boules along the perimeter. A gorgeous little bit of wearable art, you'll want to showcase this one in your collection!

Details (approximate)

Dimensions:1.75"

Weight: 4.3 grams

Materials: Gold, Micro Mosaic Tessarae 

Metal: 18K yellow gold

Marks: None

Condition: Excellent Antique condition commensurate with age and wear