This 14k yellow gold brooch is centered by a round Essex crystal, depicting a Dalmatian. The crystal is set in a sunflower-like setting, with gold wire 'petals'.
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 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: 40 mm diameter.
Weight: 12.26 grams
Age: 20th Century, circa 1940s. The Essex crystal is possibly older.
Material: Hallmarked for 14k gold.
Condition: In great vintage condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes only.