A very unusual antique gold and coral pendant, dating from the late 19th century.

It depicts a lizard (or other reptile) crafted from coral. The head is mounted in gold, carefully engraved with the tongue is cheekily poking out. The lizard is set with garnet gemstone eyes and the coral for the arms and legs has been carved to depict tiny hands and feet.

It hails from the Victorian era, a time when jewellery often held rich symbolism. Mediterranean coral was highly valued during this period, believed to bring protection and good fortune to the wearer. An association dating back to ancient Roman times, where coral jewellery was believed to have talismanic properties and branches of coral were hung around their children's necks to safeguard them from danger.

Jewellery designed in the shape of animals and insects was particularly popular - some even believed that when worn as a charm, the animals unique traits could be transferred onto the wearer. The lizard, a rare and meaningful motif, symbolised resilience and adaptability - qualities celebrated by Victorian society. Conversation-starting ‘novelty jewellery’ like this always added some whimsy and humour to an outfit.

The pendant measures 4cm by 6cm, and has a weight of 6 grams.

The gold is unmarked but the gold tests as 18K. The pendant is in good condition, all the coral limbs are securely set. A typically Victorian bizarre novelty pendant!

The Victorian era was a period of great change and innovation in the world of jewellery. Spanning from 1837 to 1901, the era witnessed an explosion of styles from romantic and sentimental to Gothic and grotesque. The use of jet, onyx, and coral in mourning jewellery became popular after the death of Prince Albert in 1861. The discovery of diamond mines in South Africa in 1867 led to an increase in the use of diamonds in jewellery, as well as the popularity of more elaborate gemstone cuts such as the cushion, rose, and old mine cuts.

Victorian jewellery was also notable for its use of complex symbolism, such as snake motifs that represented eternal love or the use of flowers to convey hidden meanings. The jewellery made in this era featured the finest materials and was made by highly skilled craftsmen, making it some of the most desirable antique jewellery for its unique charm and fine quality.

DELIVERY

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For UK delivery, we send with Royal Mail Special Delivery, arriving by the next working day. For International orders over £1000 we use DHL Express International, and for orders under £1000 we use Royal Mail International Tracked and Signed. All items are sent fully insured.

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RETURNS

We understand that purchasing antique jewellery online can be a daunting task, which is why we offer an easy, no-hassle returns policy. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, simply get in touch within 14 days of receipt for a full refund, no questions asked. We want our customers to feel confident when buying from us, and our returns policy is just one way we ensure this.

Conditions: Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. All items are to be returned in their original condition and packaging. Buyer damaged items and items bought on layaway are ineligible for returns. Items over £2500 can be returned for store credit only.

You can find more information about our returns policy here.