This wonderfully ornate antique Georgian era sterling silver pendant fob is set with the most beautiful example of early "slag" art glass that is streaked in dramatic brown, copper, white and cream lines.
This generously sized piece is finely hand-crafted in solid sterling silver and it shows the heraldic style decoration that is typical of the period. The design features intricate silver scrollwork with a perched eagle on both sides and the top boasts a wide bore hanging loop accented in silver beads. The large half round glass cabochon that is set in the base is backed in silver.
Quite a rare piece with the glass possibly made by Sowerby's in Northern England. While we might think of slag glass as a purely Victorian "invention" it has been around since Roman times. A byproduct of iron and copper smelting (hence the rather unfortunate name that was borrowed from the steel industry), the resulting vitreous glass streaked in unique patterns became very fashionable with the Victorians. It is commonly found in a purple colour but brown slag glass is scarce and we did think this was a stunning piece of agate until we tested it!
Steeped in history to explore this impressive pendant fob will make a unique addition to your Georgian jewellery collection.
MATERIALS: sterling silver
GEMSTONE: half round glass cabochon measuring 25x20mm, 10mm deep
MEASUREMENTS: 1-3/8" (3.5cm) tall, base 1-1/8" (2.7cm) by 1" (2.5cm)
DATE: Georgian, circa 1810
WEIGHT: 11.3 grams
HALLMARKS: none, acid tested and confirmed sterling silver
CONDITION: In very good antique condition with light surface wear as to be expected in a piece this old. There should be a shell motif at both sides but one is absent, not particularly noticeable due to the intricacy of the silver work and perhaps forgivable given a Georgian age. The silver gleams with a beautiful steely grey antique patina, There are light surface scratches on surface of the glass but no chips or cracks. Please see the photos and note that the chain is not included in purchase.
At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear or give as a gift. We offer free worldwide shipping and a no quibble money back guarantee.
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Materials: Sterling Silver, Slag Glass.