Edwardian 14kt Reverse Carved Crystal Horse Pin

Reverse carved crystal was a technique created by cutting pieces of rock quartz crystal into a convex form and then polishing it into a cabochon shape.  An image is carved into the flat side of the crystal and then hand painted.  From the front, the picture appears to be almost three-dimensional. Many different images were used in reverse carved crystal jewelry and artwork but animals were some of the most common used. Fox hunting was a culture full of tradition and ceremony. Adopted by the British Nobility as a sport, riding "hounds" became a sign of status and social standing. Hunting motifs became very popular and were often found displayed in jewelry!

A fabulous reverse carved crystal pin from the Edwardian (ca1900) era! Traditionally worn as a part of a fox hunter's sporting ensemble, this style of pin was typically worn to secure a rider's neck scarf. Made of 14kt yellow gold, the pin features a hand painted picture of a woman riding atop a leaping horse. The painting was done on the reverse carved crystal and has a mother of pearl background. The image is highly detailed with a brown coat and vibrant green grass. It is featured on a 14kt gold riding crop complete with an etched design on the end to look like the handle and a gold loop for the strap. The top of the clasp is marked "14K". This stunning pin would look beautiful worn on a blouse or blazer either alone or paired with other pins!

Measurements: The pin measures approximately 2 1/4" long and the reverse carved quartz crystal measures approximately 5/8" in diameter and is 1/4" thick.

Condition: The overall condition of the pin is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the crystal or the gold. The clasp is secure and in good working condition.