Pinecones: Victorian Aesthetic Movement Earrings and Pendant Circa 1884

A Victorian parure of earrings and matching pendant in the Aesthetic Movement style, circa 1884. Made in sterling silver with rose gold details.

The Victorian Aesthetic Movement (1860s through 1890s) was born out of inspiration from nature. Popular motifs were drawn from the natural world: flowers, insects and birds, as well as Japanese inspired designs. I think the Japanese influence is particularly evident in this sweet set, even though it is replete with Victorian sentimental motifs. Jewellery of this period was smaller and lighter, and much more functional than the jewels of the mid-Victorian Grand period, but the sweet sentimentality of coded messages in the floral motifs was still as prevalent as ever.

Ivy leaves are picked out in rose gold on a ground of sterling silver with delicately engraved floral details. Ribbons of lace-like decoration are included in the design. Ivy was a favourite symbol of the Victorian Era, it was said to represent friendship, fidelity and marriage; although according to my Floriography book circa 1882 a sprig of ivy with tendrils was said to mean assiduous to please. I bet whomever was first given this set was most pleased, indeed.

The scalloped edges of each piece are reminiscent of pinecones, and although I can’t find a direct symbolic translation for pinecone, or conifers in general, the Spruce is said to represent hope in adversity.

The pendant was originally a brooch, converted at some point into the past into a pendant (not by me) with a large loop at the top. The transformation does make the set more wearable in today’s fashion.

Manufacture:
Modelled in Sterling silver with rose gold details. Full British Hallmarks for Birmingham, 1884 can be found on each item.

The earrings have a drop of 31mm. The bottom dangle measures 19.3mm x 12.2mm x 2.16mm.
Weighs 2 grams (pair)

The pendant has been converted from a brooch to a pendant many moons ago. It measures 45mm (not including the bail)  x 28.58mm x 3mm.
Weighs 3.94 grams.
It comes with a 60.5cm (23 3/4″) vintage sterling silver chain, hallmarked “sterling” to the bolt ring.

Condition:
The earrings are in all original condition with their period appropriate small silver shepherds hooks. They are in lovely antique condition with signs of wear commensurate with age and use. The pendant shows a little more wear than the earrings, with a ding to the side of one scalloped edge. The conversion from a brooch is evident on the reverse where the hinge and c-clasp have been removed, but this is a small cosmetic flaw.
Ready for immediate, everyday wear.