Antique-Style 18ct Gold Opal and Diamond Photograph Pendant
An Ornamental Frame for Memory, Affection, and Remembrance
An unusually elaborate photograph pendant fashioned in 18-carat gold, its rectangular frame ornamented with intricate scrolling goldwork and set with seven cabochon opals and twenty-four round brilliant-cut diamonds, with an estimated total diamond weight of 0.60 carats. This substantial pendant combines the traditions of miniature portraiture, sentimental jewelry, and ornamental goldsmithing. The central rectangular aperture is enclosed by a finely worked rope-twist border, beyond which a continuous arrangement of openwork gold scrolls creates an intricate decorative framework. Seven opals, fashioned into oval and pear-shaped cabochons, are distributed symmetrically around the perimeter, their iridescent surfaces providing subtle flashes of blue, green, and pale rose. Twenty-four brilliant-cut diamonds punctuate the goldwork, introducing points of reflected light among the scrolling ornament. Larger diamonds accentuate the corners, while smaller stones are arranged in pairs and groups throughout the frame.The composition achieves a balance between the fluidity of the gold ornament and the restrained geometry of the central aperture.
The pendant is suspended from an ornate gold bail, itself embellished with a pear-shaped opal, allowing the frame to hang vertically when worn. The reverse reveals a plain rectangular backing of glass. The gold bears marks including 750 and 18K, indicating 18-carat gold, together with faint additional control marks that warrant further examination. Although its precise date and place of manufacture have not been established, the pendant draws upon the elaborate decorative vocabulary of nineteenth-century sentimental and portrait jewelry.
Image 1 of 5
Image 2 of 5
Image 3 of 5
Image 4 of 5
Image 5 of 5
