Jet + Pietra Dura Pendant

This nineteenth-century pendant exemplifies refined craftsmanship. The delicate Pietra dura hardstone panel features a pink rose set within a faceted Whitby Jet mount. Its unique design reflects the artistry characteristic of the period.

Pietra dura (hardstone) is a Florentine mosaic technique descended from the Roman opus sectile style. In this method, carefully sawn gemstone pieces are fitted together to form an image. Jet refers to the fossilised wood of Araucaria araucana (Monkey Puzzle) and related species that thrived during the Jurassic period, approximately 150 to 180 million years ago. Its deep, lustrous black colour and rarity contributed to its high value in the Victorian era (1860–1890), when jet and Pietra dura pendants were worn for both their elegance and their symbolic significance as tokens of affection or remembrance.

The pendant, including the bail, measures approximately 7cm in length, 3.8cm in width, and 0.8cm in depth. This artefact provides a tangible connection to the artistic and emotional values of the nineteenth century, embodying its style and symbolic significance.

Specifications
Description: Pietra Dura set within a faceted Whitby Jet mount
Condition: Original, excellent (pendant only)
Period: Victorian era (1837-1901), late 19th century
Dimensions: H7cm (including bail) just pendant H4.5cm x W3.8cm x D0.8cm, approximately

PLEASE NOTE Our antique and vintage collections are second-hand items. Customers are not purchasing ‘new’, ‘perfect’ or ‘unworn items’, and as such, should expect wear and imperfections. It is expected that these pieces will show normal wear and tear, given their age. Wear could include patina, scuffs, and light scratches or chips. Images are of actual items. Please review the photos carefully before purchasing and reach out if you have any questions.