This is a fantastic 14 karat gold and turquoise Etruscan Revival pendant necklace from the Victorian era. It features detailed hand engraved gold and fabulous turquoise cabochons with movement from dangling elements.
Etruscan Revival jewelry has a rich and interesting history. In the early 1800's there was a large excavation of Etruscan tombs outside of Rome. Within these tombs were pieces of original Etruscan jewelry. The Etruscans were master artisans; they created breathtaking pieces of jewelry through their use of gold wire and beading, colored gemstones, and glass. The news of the excavation of these tombs, and the treasures contained inside them, spread throughout Europe. Etruscan style jewelry captured the imagination of the public and soon jewelers, particularly those in England, began to produce elaborate pieces of jewelry in the style of the Etruscans. Etruscan Revival jewelry rose to popularity with the people of Victorian England. Inspired by the Etruscans, jewelers implemented the use of wirework, beading, filigree, and granulation.
This pendant was originally a pin. The pin stem was removed and two half rings were attached to accommodate a chain. It is approximately 2” long and has a diameter of 1”. This piece contains 12 unique turquoise stones. The turquoise cabochons around the top circle of the piece are oval and approximately 4.25mm x 3.5mm. The lower circle has 5 round stones that are smaller and are approximately 2.5mm in size. The dangling pear shaped turquoise at the base of the pendant is approximately 4.85mm in size. The pendant and chain weighs 5.2 grams. Although this piece is unmarked it is tested to be 14k gold.
The chain showed with the pendant is included with this piece. It is 20" long and is marked as 14k.
