Edwardian Micro Mosaic Clover & Crescent Necklace No

The sweetest antique micro-mosaic shamrock & crescent moon pendant circa 1910. I love the subtle ombré of color in the leaves, a gentle gradient from olive to deep emerald; the overall effect is richly patterned with the tiles set in brass, the pendant hung from an antique gold filled chain.

In addition to being the unofficial symbol of Ireland since roughly the 18th century, the shamrock was also a very popular motif in the Victorian era used as a metaphysical reference to luck, vitality and prosperity.

Details: The length of the pendant measures approximately 3" from the bail where it attaches to the chain to the bottom of the middle drop and 1 1/4" wide. The chain is 18 1/2" long, has a foldover clasp and is marked for gold-filled.

Condition: In excellent condition with a light patina and some oxidization of the brass, no obviously missing tiles. 

History: Mosaics fashioned of small pieces of glass or hardstone called tesserae, have been produced for literally thousands of years, with earliest examples attributed to the Ancient Greeks. The popularity of European travel in the 18th and 19th century, often referred to as "The Grand Tour" and considered essential to the completion of a well-bred person's education, led to the development of micro-mosaics and small portable souvenirs like jewelry using classical and popular naturalistic themes.