Mid 19th Century Early Victorian Silver Front 14k Gold Back Old Mine Cut Diamond Crescent Moon Pendant

Details

Description

This early Victorian crescent moon pendant has so many lovely details that it is a joy to look at. The … Read more This early Victorian crescent moon pendant has so many lovely details that it is a joy to look at. The first thing you’ll notice are the beautiful Old Mine Cut diamonds with their chunky facets and open culets. As the diamonds become smaller towards the tips of the crescent, the final few diamonds segue into Rose Cuts. Along the outside edge of the crescent, the diamonds are pinched in a collet setting, with visibly intricate silver work, while the other corners of the stones are bead set. The pendant has a silver front and 14k gold back, as was a common jewelry feature during the Victorian era. The silver has a beautiful patina that makes the diamonds stand out. The level of attention to detail is very special in this piece. The sides of the pendant have stunning carriage work. The metal transitions from silver to gold halfway down the side, but the lines of the of carriage work align perfectly with the silver collet setting. On the back of the carriage, the gold that holds the diamonds in place has tiny curves under each stone that mirror the scrolling motif along the sides of the carriage work. Circa the 1890’s, this piece was originally a brooch and was converted into a pendant.

The pendant contains 54 natural antique diamonds; 50 of the diamonds are Old Mine Cut, two are Rose Cut, and two are transitional cut. The pendant has a TCW of approximately 3.25 carats. The diamonds range from G-K in color and VS2-I in clarity. At some point, two diamonds were replaced by transitional cut diamonds; this is normal for a piece of this age and doesn’t detract from the beauty of the piece, as it is only visible when looped.

The pendent measures 1” x 1” with a depth of 1/4”. The bail measures 5 x 8 mm. The piece weighs 4.85 grams. Unmarked; acid tests as 14k gold and silver.

Pictured here on our Signature Victorian Inspired 14K Gold Fancy Link Chain, also available in our shop. The pendant also looks great on a simple chain. See less