Victorian Coral Egg Pendant
To still tempests and traverse broad rivers in safety was the privilege of one who bore either red or white coral with him. That this also stanched the flow of blood from a wound, cured madness, and gave wisdom, was said to have been experimentally proved. - G.F. Kunz, The Curious Lore of Precious Stones (1913)
Coral has long been prized for its talismanic powers: for health, for wisdom, or protection. This coral talisman dates from the mid Victorian period, circa 1860. A single piece of pale pink coral is fashioned into an egg shape, and hangs from a rose diamond studded gold cap reminiscent of the green part at the top of an aubergine/eggplant - the calyx.
But coral's powers didn't only manifest in the present, this miracle of the ocean could also protect its wearer from future misfortune. Kunz, in his remarkable book, also refers to coral as an "ominous" stone:
An ominous character was attributed to the red coral... If worn so that the substance came in direct contact with the skin, it was asserted that the color would pale, the coral also losing its brightness if the wearer became ill, or even if he were only threatened with severe illness. The same effect was said to be induced if some deadly poison had been taken.
It should be noted that, in both quoted instances, Kunz is referencing 16th century texts, and thus even older beliefs: Albertus Magnus, Le Grand Albert des secretz des vertues des Herbes, Pierres et Bestes (c.1515) and Cardani, De subtilitate (1554) respectively.
Era: Victorian, circa 1860
Size: 27.7mm (including bail) by 9.8mm
Stone: Coral and Rose Cut Diamond
Marks: None, tested as 9ct gold
Condition: Great antique condition
Full appraisal document provided with each item.
This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable).
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain).
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Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved and often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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