Delicate Micro Mosaic Brooch in 800 Gilded Silver with Small Tesserae c. 1870

Caroline's Jewelry with a Past is offering a step into the artistry of 19th-century craftsmanship with this attractive antique micro mosaic brooch, meticulously crafted in 800 gilded silver c. 1870. Measuring 1-1/4 inches in diameter, this circular brooch features an exquisite array of small tesserae, creating a breathtaking floral motif with vibrant roses, daisies, and forget-me-nots set against a rich cobalt blue background. The intricate millefiori-inspired border showcases remarkable attention to detail, further enhancing the piece’s collectible charm. The C-clasp closure and hinged pin confirm its authenticity as a true antique. The brooch is marked "800". There is wear to the gilding in spots.

Micro mosaics, also known as "Roman mosaics," gained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly among European travelers visiting Italy during the Grand Tour. Skilled artisans in Rome and Venice used thousands of tiny glass tesserae to create intricate images, often inspired by nature, architecture, or religious iconography. These fine pieces became sought-after souvenirs, capturing the beauty of Italian craftsmanship in miniature form.

Millefiori (Italian for "a thousand flowers") is a glass making technique in which multi-colored glass rods (canes) are fused, sliced, and arranged into intricate floral or geometric patterns. The technique dates back to Ancient Rome (1st century BCE) but was revived in the 19th century by Murano glassmakers in Venice. Millefiori is commonly used in micro mosaics, beads, and paperweights, prized for its vibrant, detailed artistry.

In the 1870s, 800 silver was widely used across Europe, with Italy leading in micro mosaic jewelry, Germany producing filigree brooches, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire crafting snuff boxes and jewelry marked with an “A” or a dog’s head stamp, while France, Switzerland, and the Netherlands also incorporated it into decorative objects, watch cases, and export pieces.