A finely carved agate mouse pendant of singular design. We fell in love at first sight with this unique creature. The curled-up body and wrap-around tail make the figure utterly adorable. A mouse has been a symbol of good luck, prosperity, intelligence, curiosity and wisdom. This piece is carved from a beautiful light-brown agate. Its distinctive face is well-depicted, featuring two black onyx eyes and slightly translucent ears. The pendant is finished with a substantial 14k gold bail (marked '585'); the generous loop of which can accommodate various chain styles. For visual inspiration, it is shown here paired with our Victorian 'Lovers Knot' 18k gold chain and 'Large carved agate amulet'.
While we acquired this piece in Austria, this pendant most likely originates from Idar-Oberstein, Germany, a town renowned for its exceptional gemstone carving tradition. A significant number of Fabergé's carved animal figures originated from workshops in this region. Having spent several formative years studying in Germany, Peter Carl Fabergé (1846–1920) established his firm in St. Petersburg. He frequently traveled to Idar-Oberstein in the late 1890s. This German hub of carving expertise was where Fabergé commissioned carvers, such as those of the Dreher family, for his designs. Some skilled artisans from the region also worked in Fabergé's own St. Petersburg workshops. Please refer to the last reference images (Fabergé examples from ©Sotheby and the V&A Museum in London).

This mouse pendant measures approximately 3cm in total drop (including the bail) and weighs 12.94 grams. It is in excellent condition overall, with no damage to the stone. 

*This listing is for the mouse pendant only. The chain is available here.