Antique Art Nouveau 14K Plique A Jour & Lava Cameo Upcycled Pendant

Plique-à-jour is a French phrase meaning "open to light". It's a technique producing translucent enamels held in an open framework make by soldering individual wires of delicate metal strips to each other. This method was made popular during the Art Nouveau period (1890 - 1915), a movement that embraced long flowing lines and a lighter, more airy feeling than the heavy and somber Victorian styles. The importation of Asian art also influenced the trends, and nature was often the focus for the jewelry pieces. 

Travelers on the Grand Tour of Europe found the newly excavated ruins of Pompeii to be an irresistible stop. Lava trinkets from these sites made for excellent and inexpensive souvenirs, easy to pack and carry. In addition, pinning a lava cameo on ones’ blouse proved the wearer to be a well-traveled person of culture and good taste. The local industry was equal to the demand and created many cameos and intaglios out of this unlikely material to the unending delight of the tourists.

Combining elements from two different pendants, Kathy created a wonderful piece. A decorative Art Nouveau stylized lily and flower motif is complemented with deep green plique a jour glass. Attached to the base is an elegant lava cameo of a woman with embellishments that echo the flowing lines of the top. A truly unique little work of art that will be a favorite in your collection!

Details (approximate)

Dimensions: 1 13/16"

Weight: 4.63 grams

Materials: Gold, Glass, Lava Cameo

Metal: 14K yellow gold

Marks: None

Condition: Excellent upcycled Antique condition commensurate with age and wear