This 18k gold pendant, circa 1900, features the profile of a maiden with a wreath of diamonds in her hair—a classic, art nouveau interpretation of beauty. Reminiscent of a Gibson Girl, these iconic art nouveau maidens were once considered the ideal for feminine beauty, and depicted women as autonomous, stylish, and sensual. Roses surround the maiden on each side, and vines climb around the border of the frame. A maker’s mark can be seen in the corner—an “MH” in a heart—which is unidentified but linked the Art Nouveau period.
The pendant contains eight tiny rose cut diamonds that are 1mm each and bead set into the maiden’s hair.
The pendant itself is 18k gold. Its diameter is just shy of 3/4 an inch. Its ample bail is approximately 7mm, so the pendant could be worn on a thicker chain if desired.
The necklace’s chain is 14k gold and 15 1/2 inches. The necklace weighs 4.1 grams.
