C.1880. Pietra Dura Butterfly Pendant

C.1880. Pietra Dura Butterfly Pendant

C.1880. A small pietra dura butterfly pendant. Originally found as a French stick pin (with French import owl hallmark), and we converted it into a pendant by adding 14k gold loops. The pendant is set in 18k gold, and the pietra dura is most likely from Italy. Pietra dura means 'hard stone' in Italian, and refers to a technique of delicately cut and polished colored stone inlays to create different motifs. This method first started in Rome in the 1500s, and flourished in Florence. The butterfly here is a beautiful and unique combination of lapis, malachite, agate and yellow marble. Butterfly symbolizes beauty, transformation, and rebirth. And when the wings are wrapped like these in a heart shape, it also represents love. Overall the pendant is in very good condition, and ready to be hung on your chain. 

Total Drop: Approximately 0.93" (including the top loop) 
Width: 14.5mm

*The last image shows our 'Witch's heart' agate pendant together. This listing is for the butterfly pendant only.