Victorian 18K Gold Gold Foil Pendant | Emerald | Seed Pearl | Orientalist Revival | Antique Necklace c.1860–1880

Some antique jewels are admired for their gemstones.

Others are treasured because they preserve a miniature work of art.

Created during the Victorian period, circa 1860–1880, this remarkable 18K gold pendant is centred around an exquisitely detailed gold foil artwork set over rich green glass, framed by a delicate border of natural seed pearls and finished with elegant emerald drops.

Rather than depicting a simple decorative motif, the pendant presents an intricate narrative scene. Beneath an ornate canopy stands a central figure, flanked by attendants holding flowering branches, while two camels rest below among scrolling vines and foliage. The entire composition evokes the romance of the East, reflecting the fascination with distant cultures that swept across Europe during the nineteenth century.

This beautiful piece belongs to the Orientalist Revival movement, when jewellery designers drew inspiration from Persia, India, the Middle East and the ancient Silk Road, transforming exotic imagery into wearable works of art.

The finely executed gold foil decoration remains remarkably well preserved, shimmering softly against its deep green background with extraordinary detail and craftsmanship.

Surrounding the panel is a complete border of natural seed pearls, adding softness and refinement, while three articulated emerald drops, each separated by natural pearls, create graceful movement whenever the pendant is worn.

The reverse features the characteristic closed-back construction found in fine Victorian jewellery, preserving the traditional craftsmanship of the period.

After more than 140 years, this pendant remains an exceptional example of Victorian artistry—combining history, symbolism, craftsmanship and beauty into one remarkable collector’s piece.

Details

Period

Victorian, circa 1860–1880

Metal

18K Gold (tested, no hallmark)

Gemstones

* 3 Natural Emeralds
* Natural Seed Pearls
* Natural Pearls

Emerald Measurements

* Approx. 10 × 7 × 3 mm (1)
* Approx. 8 × 6 × 3 mm (2)

Pearls

* Centre pearl approx. 4 mm
* Side pearls approx. 3.1 mm
* Seed pearls approx. 2.1 mm

Dimensions

Approx. 6.2 × 2.8 cm

Thickness approx. 5 mm

Weight

9.31 g

Why You’ll Love It

* Authentic Victorian pendant dating to circa 1860–1880
* Hand-crafted in solid 18K gold
* Rare gold foil artwork over deep green glass
* Orientalist Revival design inspired by Eastern art and culture
* Intricate scene featuring figures, camels, floral motifs and a ceremonial canopy
* Framed with natural seed pearls
* Finished with articulated natural emerald and pearl drops
* Traditional closed-back Victorian construction
* Beautifully preserved with outstanding craftsmanship
* A highly collectible museum-quality antique jewel

Condition

Excellent antique condition for its age.

The gold foil artwork remains beautifully preserved with crisp detail. The natural emeralds display attractive colour, while the seed pearls retain lovely lustre. Minor age-related wear is consistent with a Victorian jewel of this period and does not detract from its beauty or collectability.

Shipping

【📦 Worldwide shipping from London, UK】

Your jewellery will be carefully packaged in a luxury SHECH London presentation box and shipped fully insured with tracking.

About SHECH London

At SHECH London, every antique jewel is personally selected for its craftsmanship, history and enduring beauty.

We believe exceptional jewellery should continue to be worn, treasured and passed on for generations.