Antique micromosaic earrings

Antique micromosaic earrings

Of floral details framing a bird in flight, 1870s
Yellow gold
7/8 x 2 1/2 ins; Gross weight 9.2 dwts

Popular in 19th Century Italy, micromosaics were constructed from small pieces of tesserae, typically made from glass or enamel. One method of creation involved melting the glass, pulling it to thin rods, allowing it to cool, then cutting it into tiny pieces arranged in a portrait, scene, or landscape. This pair of earrings on black background exemplify the technique used in revivalist jewelry.
Condition Report: Overall good condition commensurate with age. Mounting slightly bent near top of diamond-shaped pendant. The earrings have post backs, a later adaptation. There are no gold marks on the earrings. They test at 18k gold, however the original ear wire has been changed and a post back added and this addition does not test at 18k.