This delightful 18k yellow gold stickpin is set with a round Essex crystal, depicting an adorable scruffy dog, likely a terrier.
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 threedimensional effect. The back of the crystal was closed off using a piece of mother of pearl, which gives the luminous effect around the tiny pup.
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 frame has a diameter of 13.7 mm.
The pin is 52 mm long.
Weight: 5.17 grams
Age: Late 19th Century, Victorian era, circa 1880s.
Material: Acid tested as 18k gold.
Condition: This pin is in great antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age.
Please note that this store is based in the EU. Buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties and VAT.