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Vintage 9ct Gold Leaf & Rosette Embellished Operculum Pendant Necklace

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A distinct vintage operculum pendant necklace from the early to mid 20th century! Made of 9ct gold, the hand made pendant is a lovely warm rose hue indicative of the older gold and the complementary trace necklace appears original, matching beautifully! The eye is drawn to the round and dome op ...Read more
AUD $ 475.00

  • Description
  • Specifications

A distinct vintage operculum pendant necklace from the early to mid 20th century! Made of 9ct gold, the hand made pendant is a lovely warm rose hue indicative of the older gold and the complementary trace necklace appears original, matching beautifully! The eye is drawn to the round and dome operculum specimen, a striking ombre-esque affect of deep forest green, white, orange, brown and a hint of yellowish-green hue's. The operculum rests in a four claw collet and is partially surrounded by curvilinear wire. The wire is embellished with lovely textured leaf motifs, placed and resting as if they just descended, and there is one rosette at the top - the organic flowing style reminiscent of the Art & Crafts era. A stylized runner finishes the pendant off nicely. The pendant suspends from a 42cm fine trace necklace, fastening at the back with a bolt ring clasp. The style of the piece is typical with early Australian.

Operculum is a certain type of freshwater marine snail … said to have been one of the oddest materials found in Victorian jewellery. It was a fashionable accessory in Victorian times, and beyond. While the snail is alive the operculum is a flexible membrane, but afterwards it hardens and becomes a calcareous 'seashell'. The pattern resembles somewhat like an eye-like appearance, which is why it's refered to as 'cat's eye' sometimes!

Video of the necklace can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/SMZN6wLcRyk

A most unique piece of vintage jewellery, perfect for the nature loving lady!

Early to mid 20th century
9ct warm (pale) rose gold and operculum (seashell)
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"9CT" to pendant and "9K" to clasp
5.20 grams
2.70cm (1") total drop pendant and 42cm (16 & 1/2") long necklace
The vintage pendant necklace presents in excellent condition. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the shell, mount, or necklace. A one of a kind piece!