Kirsten's Corner

Late Victorian 18K Gold Etruscan Revival Lion Charm or Pendant

$350.00

This is a stunning Etruscan Revival 18k gold lion charm or pendant from the late Victorian era. The details in this piece denote that it was made by the hands of a master craftsman. The lion is lovingly decorated with beautiful bright cut work and fine line engravings.

Originally a stickpin, this piece was recently converted into a pendant—preserving its timelessness but also allowing it to be worn as a fashionable charm. Stickpins rose to prominence in the Victorian era. In the early and mid-1800s, it was customary for upper class men to wear them to secure their ties and cravats. Pins were also worn on the lapels of coats, and incorporated into hats. Eventually, women took interest in wearing stickpins and began using them on scarves, and the style and function of these items continued to evolve over time. As you wear this adorable charm, don’t forget its rich history!

Etruscan Revival jewelry dates to the early 1800s, when 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 eye-catching charm weighs 3.7 grams. The beautifully made lion is approximately 1/2” tall and 3/4” wide. It is unmarked, and tests as 18k gold. The 14k gold oval bail has been added by Kirsten’s Corner and is 5.5mm x 8mm. This piece looks great alone on a chain or stacked on a charm bracelet.

You may also like

Recently viewed