This is a stunning Victorian silver front 18k gold back shamrock pendant with a diamond encrusted 18k gold bail. A combination of Old Mine Cut and Rose Cut diamonds surround the pear shaped Columbian emeralds. Each pear shaped emerald and diamond element make up the three leaves of the shamrock. The patina of the silver has blackened over time and the diamonds pop in the contrast. We have topped the piece with a custom bail in 18k gold with 18 single cut diamonds that graduate in size. The piece hangs on a 14K gold wheat chain that is 18" long.
In the Victorian Era three leaf clovers or shamrocks were a popular symbol of good fortune and prosperity. Each leaf represents a different attribute: faith, hope, and love or the holy trinity of the father, son, and holy ghost. The shamrock is a well-known symbol of Ireland. The symbol goes as far back as the Celts who believed the number three to have magical properties and was a recurring theme in Celtic folklore.
The shamrock is silver front and gold backed. The diamonds are a combination of single cuts (in the bail) and Old Mine Cut diamond and Rose Cuts in the shamrock. There are 62 diamonds total, all are bead set with the exception of the central diamond that is prong set. The largest diamond in the center is 3.85mm x 4.25mm, the other range in size down to 1.5mm. There is a total diamond weight of approximately 1.25 carats. The natural Columbian emeralds are prong set and measure 10.75mm x 6mm the largest and 2 at 9.75mm x 5.75mm; there is approximately 3 carats of emeralds. Total weight with chain is 14.45 grams. The piece measures 1 3/4" x 1 1/2" and is a beautiful example of Victorian jewelry rich in history and symbolism. The shamrock element is circa 1880.
