This is a fantastic 14 karat gold and turquoise Etruscan Revival pendant from the Victorian era.
Etruscan Revival jewelry has a rich an interesting history. In the early 1800s 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 and a pendant. The pin part was removed at an earlier date I am sure to make it easier to wear as a pendant. It is not a conversion piece as it was always a pendant. It is approximately 2” long and has a diameter of 1”. This piece contains 12 unique turquoise stones. The turquoise cabochons towards the top of the piece approximately 4.75 mm in size, below that are the smaller stones are approximately 2.75mm in size, the pear shaped turquoise at the base of the pendant is approximately 4.85mm in size. The pendant weighs approximately 3.40 grams. Although this piece is unmarked I have tested it as 14kt gold.
The chain showed with the pendant is not included with this piece. If you are interested in purchasing the chain pictured, you can view it on our store.
This pendant would make an unforgettable gift or fabulous addition to your antique collection!
