Dawn and Dusk - 18th C. Paste Pendant

Black and white combine in an 18th century example of glass and paste jewelry. (See item 11009 for matching earrings and more photos). Here is a harmonious marriage of two elements from approximately the same time but not from the same piece of jewelry. A glass tear-shaped drop with an artful inky black glass element is set open backed and into silver. This is paired with a frill of silver set with clear or white pastes. From an aesthetic viewpoint these two are clearly well suited to each other.

Measurements: 1-7/8 inches (4.7 cm) by 7/8 of an inch (2.3 cm) at the widest. This antique pendant has a weight of 6.5 grams.

Condition: Good. This is a marriage of two parts. The top has a new gold pendant loop; two areas on each left and right have old worn silver solder mostly gone. The bottom has a new top fitting; some silver solder evident when viewed with magnification. The center paste is a bit brighter than the other three.

Date: Circa 1770.

Note: In respect to jewelry, the term “marriage” often means two parts which did not originally come from the same jewel have been placed together.