English Diamond & Pearl Pansy Pendant | 15ct Gold | 43 Foiled Rose Cuts | c.1860

A wonderful English diamond flower, set with rose cuts and a beautiful pearl center; fashioned much like a pansy, though in monochromatic gold and rose cut, this flower pendant has been beautifully designed with a Y-shaped pendant fitting to allow it to swing and sit naturally on any chain, or Eloise!

The pansy came into widespread cultivation deeper into the 19th century than many think; a form of hybridized violet, blotched pansies became accessible in the final quarter of the 1830s (according to Charlotte Gere in Victorian Jewelry Design) and enjoyed a special place of honor within the broader pantheon of sentimental flowers celebrated in 19th century English and European jewelry.

A discussion of the pansy is never completed without the bastardized French translation of the name "pansy" as "pensez-à-moi," or, as Christine Daaé sings, "think of me." Floriography often declares this the meaning of the appearance of a pansy. But I think that this one, without any purple enamel or hint to a true garden counterpart beyond the silhouette, and number of petals – is more in the habit of expressing eternity. A singular creamy pearl stars at the center of the jewel, reminding us that without water, and a temperate sea breeze; no garden can truly grow.

Details

• Era: English, c. 1860s — height of floriography/sentimental jewelry
• Materials: 15ct gold
• Stones: 43 foiled rose cut diamonds; pearl centre
• Central Element: 1" × 1.25"
• Total Hanging Length: 2.25"
• Weight: 9.14g
• Construction: Y-shaped pendant fitting
• Hallmarks: None; assayed to confirm gold
• Condition: Excellent historical condition. Have a close look at the photos.

Shipping & Services

Ships fully insured, signature required via UPS from our NYC office. Full historical certification and appraisal services available upon request — beautiful documented paperwork inclusive of photographs.

The Curio NYC | Fine Historical Jewels | Brooklyn, New York, Paris