14k Gold Carved Black Onyx Forget-Me-Not Flower Mourning Pendant w Pearls

For sale is a 14k yellow gold pendant with carved onyx flowers, pearls and black enamel.  This stunning antique pendant was originally created as a mourning pendant, worn by a widow or other woman who had lost a loved one.  The pendant is unusual in its design and craftsmanship.  The pendant is a bouquet of thee carved onyx flowers.  Each flower is beautifully hand-carved with a tiny seed pearl at its center.  Each seed pearl is secure in a tiny prong basket setting.  Each gold setting pierces the onyx flower and holds it securely to a curved, rounded 14k backing. The most unusual part of this pendant is the sinuous, coiling gold wire that forms the stem of the flowers.  The curving gold stems, painted black with enamel, are snake-like in their design. The pendant combines several mourning symbols:  the black onyx and enamel, the forget-me-not flowers, and the slightly macabre sinuous design.  The pendant has a hinged bail that moves freely backwards and forwards.  The gold is visible on the back of the pendant (see photos.)  This antique mourning pendant is quite beautiful and flattering to wear.  It looks stunning worn with a black dress, top or blouse.  It is a versatile piece that can be beautifully combined with pearl, onyx and diamond jewelry.  This antique pendant is both elegant and slightly macabre, a true delight to wear!

***This is an antique piece and shows some wear.  There is some wear to the enamel on the stems.  The onyx  flowers show some wear as well.  Please see magnified photos for the most accurate view of this antique piece.

Jeannie