Rare Victorian Micro Mosaic 14K Gold Drop Necklace

Fine Victorian Micro-mosaic work was predominantly found on brooches, necklaces, and bracelets. This piece was relatively easier to date as the ‘Micro mosaic’ technique fell from favor circa 1870’s. Presently, there appears to be a resurgence in this glass technique and is becoming once again highly coveted by fine jewelry collectors in the United States and around the world.

The workmanship on this necklace is magnificent starting with extremely fine twisted wirework to the wonderfully detailed tiny glass canes that were used to create the floral and foliate depiction. There is an array of colors used to create this mosaic. Various shades of blue, green, deep red, marigold, pink with a hint of white.

This necklace measures 18 inches in length and possesses an additional drop of one inch. The chain used is extremely delicate, feminine and is 14k yellow gold. On the opposite side to the spring ring, it is marked for gold content and will be guaranteed. Surrounding the crescent moon is fine granulation whilst the pear-shape has ball-shapes found throughout the frame. I believe the two pieces of micro mosaic have a gold vermeil over silver and at one time the chain may have broken and a wonderful replacement was added. Total weight of this piece is 3.2 grams.

I’ve cleansed and polished this glorious necklace, and even though this task was daunting most of the patina between the granulation and wirework was removed successfully. Please enjoy my photographs.