18K Gold Micro-Mosaic Peace Dove Necklace

This micro-mosaic is from the Grand Tour Era, circa the 17th-19th centuries, and would have been a souvenir brought home as a memory of travels abroad. Micro-mosaics often depicted buildings or images that a traveler would have encountered on their journey. This one, which is circa 1880, features the tiniest glass tesserae of a dove. In its feet it holds an olive branch in bloom amidst a beautiful blue background. The mosaic is set in 18k gold, surrounded by a twisted wire border. Within the border are white and brick red tesserae that create a checkerboard pattern. When examined closely, you can see that the tiny tiles are not just alternating colors, but that each tile has a white and red pattern on it that perfectly align to create the checkerboard motif. The mosaic of the bird is equally impressive, with different sized tesserae for each of the bird's feathers and even a tiny detailed eye. The mosaic is very tight and incredibly well-done. The pendant has a concave surface on the back and two round bails—we’ve added an 18k gold Italian chain to complete the piece. 

The symbol of the dove with an olive branch originated with the biblical story of Noah’s Ark. When a dove appeared carrying an olive branch in its beak, Noah knew that the flood was ending and land was nearby. Today it is a universal symbol of peace. 

The pendant measures 3/4” x 7/8” with a depth of 1/4”. The chain is 18” long, but can be adjusted to 16.75”. The entire piece weighs 7.3 grams. The pendant is unmarked but acid tests as 18k gold. The chain is marked with 18k and Italy. 

This micro-mosaic is in excellent condition! To protect this piece, do not wear it in the shower or while swimming, as water could damage the glue that holds the tesserae in place.