This nautical themed stick pin is made in the reverse painted carved crystal cabochon style, also known as Essex Crystal. Miniature Essex Crystal pieces were popular in the Victorian era; it was truly one of the most unique types of Victorian era jewelry. The flat part of the crystal cabochon is carved with a drawing and afterwards the carved-out design is painted (in reverse fashion) so that it seems to float. Its a truly special and laborious technique. This cabochon has a painted flag on it, and in between the pin and the cabochon a layer of mother of pearl has been placed to give the flag a luminous background.
The cabochon is mounted on a 14 karat yellow gold pin. The pin is unmarked but tests to 14KT gold. The pin measures a total of 2-3/4 inches and the crystal cabochon that features a sailor's flag, measures 1/2 an inch. The flag appears to be swaying in the wind. It looks like a code for the letter A, but the flag also depicts personal emblem, perhaps of the nautical team. It is a curious intricate miniature, and you can tell it was made with superb craftsmanship. The crystal remains smooth, no chips or cracks. The pin is most likely British, and dates to the 1890s.
The pin weighs 1.8 grams. This pin makes a great detail to any outfit, a great gift for a man or a woman. This pin is also a nice piece of history.
We have a nice selection of gold vintage and antique pins in our shop, depicting varied subjects. Please take a look at our assortment to find the perfect one for you.
