This handmade pin is made of 18 karat gold. The overall look is a flower and leaf design. It is set with a large Baroque pearl and three smaller Baroque Pearls and was made in the 1850 time period. The larger pearls size is 18 mm x 12.5 mm. The Baroque pearls are Sea Pearls but an irregularly shaped pearl that was formed in the oyster shell. This type of irregular shaped pearl was prized in the 19th Century because of the classical period and the Renaissance period of jewelry design it was a favorite. Pearls are “Modest Loveliness” in the traditions that the Victorians lived by.
Folklore, Legend, and Healing Properties of the 19th century:
Cultured or freshwater pearls are considered to offer the power of love, money, protection, and luck. Pearls are thought to give wisdom through experience, and to cement engagements and love relationships. They are thought to keep children safe.
Early Chinese myths told of pearls falling from the sky when dragons fought. Ancient legend says that pearls were thought to be the tears of the gods and the Greeks believed that wearing pearls would promote marital bliss and prevent newlywed women from crying.
This pin could be worn on a ribbon as a pendant would have been worn high on the neck or as a pin. The pin has the original T-bar pin and C-clasp. The pin is 11/3 inches tall and 5/8 of an inch wide. This is a wonderful Civil War era pin is one of a kind, handmade and in excellent condition.