Napoleon III Diamond Crescent Pendant in Sterling Silver & 18ct Gold, French c. 1860

Eager to glow in moonlight, this crescent pendant is a perfect vampire deterrent with her shining silver face.

A beautiful French example from the Napoleon III period, circa 1860, she brings together five old European-cut diamonds and forty-nine rose cuts. The fifty-four diamonds total an estimated 1.10 carats, with a central old European-cut diamond of approximately 0.20 carats.

She belongs to the romantic tradition of the lune de miel, or honeymoon crescent: jewels associated with bridal gifts and wishes for happiness, abundance, and fertility. Even within the conventions of nineteenth-century French society, the moon offered a language for celebrating femininity and new beginnings.

While this example no longer possesses her brooch back, her lines are all the more fluid as a pendant, ready to decorate your favorite chain or hang sensuously from a ribbon.

Origin & period: French, Napoleon III, circa 1860.
Metals: Predominantly sterling silver, retaining some 18ct gold details at the back; the bale is also 18ct gold.
Diamonds: 54 total: 5 old European cuts and 49 rose cuts; estimated total weight 1.10ct, including a central old European cut of approximately 0.20ct.
Measurements: 36mm diameter; bale measures 8mm.
Weight: 9.48g.
Condition: Excellent; converted from a brooch to a pendant. The original brooch fitting is no longer present. The conversion and predominantly silver construction are reflected in the price.
Hallmarks: None visible.

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