This 18k yellow gold necklace is centered by an Essex crystal pendant that depicts an adorable bunny! This pendant was added to the chain at a later date, which makes me believe that it was originally the top of a stickpin or a button.
Essex crystals are cabochon-cut rock crystals, which have their design intricately carved into the back of the crystal, unlike cameos and intaglios, which always have the design cut out of the front. The miniature image on the inside is then painted, which gives a beautiful three-dimensional effect. The back of the crystal was closed off using a piece of mother-of-pearl, which gives a luminous effect around the bunny.
Essex crystals were invented in the mid-19th Century and were all the rage up until the early 20th Century. The incredibly difficult and time-consuming process of creating them means that they are rare to find and therefore very collectible today.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: The necklace can be worn at 41 and 45 cm: the pendant has a diameter of 14 mm.
Weight: 6.30 grams.
Age: The pendant was made in the 19th Century, circa 1860s. The chain is a modern addition.
Material: Hallmarked with a French import hallmark for 18k gold.
Condition: in good antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with age. There is some minor paint loss on the edges of the bunny; this can be seen in the pictures.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes only. This shop is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers outside the EU might be subject to import taxes.