This spectacularly carved convertible pin/pendant is a testament to the enduring quality of Neapolitan coral carving, likely having been made during the 1910s or 1920s in a style that, by then, had remained unchanged for over 50 years. Set on a substantial central coral branch, and adorned with finely carved leaves, roses, and one beautiful calla lily, it also serves as a timeline of evolving pin styles, showing changes taking place because of shifts in fashion and a preference for thinner fabrics. Victorian era pins had thick, long pin stems, which protruded far beyond their catch, in order to properly anchor pins on thick fabrics. During the Edwardian era, fabrics became much lighter, with fine cottons, lace, and silks in fashion. This led to pin stems becoming noticeably thinner and shorter, as seen in this pin, which also has the very convenient addition of a removable bail, to convert it to a pendant. Calla lilies were an interesting symbol during the late 1800s and early 1900s, with an intriguing duality- they symbolized both purity and innocence, as well as being used to secretly convey lust and sexual desire. This made them a perfect flower for communicating covert messages.
Pin measures 2" long without the bail, and 1 1/8" at its widest point. The bail measures 5/8" long and can accommodate a chain up to 1/8" thick. The gold stems and hardware test as 14k. There is one leaf missing, as evidenced by an empty stem, but it is not noticeable when worn. There are some light spots throughout the main stem, but these are natural variations, not flaws. The pin/pendant is in absolutely fantastic condition for its age, with no chips or cracks.
Please note that the fourth photo shows the most accurate depiction of color. It is more salmon than orange-brown. Chain is not included and is only shown for reference.
