Victorian Seed Pearl, Micromosaic, Enamel, Gold Pendant. ...

Condition Report*: Pearls:

Pearl: 1
Type: Seed
Shape: Near Round
Color: White
Luster: Fair
Surface: Blemished
Count: 4
Size: 2.80 - 3.00 mm


Metals:
Gold

Overall Condition: Good
Condition Notes: This exquisite pendant exemplifies the pinnacle of Victorian art and goldsmithing. A museum-quality artifact, it showcases a remarkably preserved micromosaic portrait of a classical maiden, her delicate features and laurel leaf crown meticulously rendered through hundreds of minute tesserae placed with extraordinary precision. The central portrait, which displays negligible loss considering its age, is framed by alternating bands of rich crimson and royal blue decorative patterns, creating a dramatic contrast with the nuanced portraiture at the center. Embellishing this ornate composition are four seed pearls and elegant floret motifs in raised 18k gold that introduce dimensional texture against the flat mosaic surface. Originally crafted as a brooch, this piece appears to have been thoughtfully converted to pendant form while preserving its structural integrity through a reinforcing 10k gold bar across the verso with remnants of a former hinge and catch mechanism visible.