Drop of Paradise : Early Australian Arts & Crafts Era Blister or Mabe Pearl Pendant in 9ct Gold

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Dating to the turn of the 20th Century and handmade in Australia, this pendant has all the hallmarks of a piece inspired by one of Australia’s most iconic early jewellers: Rhoda Wager. Rhoda was trained in the UK and had close ties with many of the influential British jewellers of the Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts movements. Upon moving to Australia she developed a signature style that incorporated Australian flora – especially eucalyptus leaves. Her work was hugely inspirational, many jewellers of the period imitated her unique style and I believe this pendant to be an example of that.

Mabe or Blister pearls are were harvested from the crystal clear ocean waters around Australia, particularly Broome, Western Australia. There is a fascinating history of the pearl divers of this region, which you can read about here. This piece dates to before the invention of the cultured pearl process in the 1920’s and is therefore a naturally occurring.

The pendant is made from 9ct rose gold throughout, and is stamped 9c to the back. A border of decorative hand made eucalyptus leaves and bobbles in the style of Rhoda Wager border the teardrop shaped blister pearl, which is bezel set into a closed back setting.
The blister pearl has a marvellous natural bright white lustre with silvery overtones. It measures 42mm x 20mm x 5mm.
The pendant has a drop of 35.5mm, it is 18.5mm wide and 5.6mm deep.
Weighs 3.1 grams

Please note this listing is for the pendant only. The chain pictured is for styling purposes. I’d be most happy to help you find a chain to match, please get in touch with your preferred chain length and I’ll do my best!