Belle Époque Amethyst Pendant with Life-Size 18ct Gold Fly | French c.1900
Belle Époque Amethyst Pendant with Life-Size 18ct Gold Fly | French c.1900
POA
Description
This unusual Belle Époque pendant from France, c.1900, combines lightness, wit, and skilled craftsmanship.
A large faceted amethyst hangs below a miniature fly in chased 18ct gold, as if it’s just landed for a moment on the 18 carat amethyst. That combination of subtle irreverence and perfect execution is classic Paris c.1900.
The contrast is striking: the polished warmth of gold against the saturated violet of the amethyst, whose faceted sides catch the light while the front remains smooth and weighty.
The fly, a symbol of fleeting beauty, mischief, and transformation, is rendered with remarkable realism: its lifesize legs, wings, and body clearly formed in expert detail.
The pendant plays with expectations: it’s elegant and beautiful, but never too serious.
It carries all the sophistication of Belle Époque design, yet retains a sense of fun - a touch of the surreal in a world of refinement.
At just 2.5cm tall, it’s wearable, cheeky, and so chic.
A piece that draws you in, then makes you smile.
Available exclusively at ELTONS, Grays Antique Market, Mayfair, London.
For more information or to purchase this piece online, please visit our website at www.eltonantiquejewellery.com
E L T O N S
| item details | |
|---|---|
| Origin | French |
| Period | Early 1900s |
| Materials | Gold |
| Main Gemstone | Amethyst |
| Carat for Gold | 18 K |
| Main Gemstone Carat | approx 18 carats |
| Dimensions | 4cm long Amethyst 1.5cm x 2.5cm |
Product REF: 413P
