Jewelry incorporating ribbon-like motifs began in the late 17th century and continued through the 18th even into the early 19th century. The Portuguese developed a special type which blended two motifs, that of the ubiquitous bow and the teardrop shape - the laça bow pendant.

Symmetry reigns in this 18th century pink topaz, diamonds, and silver example of a three-part pendant (another favorite of the era). Consisting of a surmount cluster, an abstracted ribbon-like middle, and teardrop dangle these create lyrical, undulating forms.

Three pink topazes are set into rub-over pinched high carat yellow gold. Each is set foiled backed with subtle variation of watermelon pinks hues. Surrounding these sit ribbons of silver set with tiny rose cut diamonds. These too are placed into rub over silver metal, with just the tops peeking through as was typical of the techniques in use at the time.

Note the bulbous, sculptural backs with the entire pendant convex and not flat or static.

Long ago, this was converted from an earring and has an old silver pendant fitting. It has been left with the patina as found, but request this to be lightly cleaned for you if desired.