Edwardian 14kt Reverse Carved Crystal Trout + Fly Fishing Bar Pin A. Brandt + Son

Reverse carved crystal was a technique created by cutting a piece of rock quartz crystal into a convex form and then polishing it into a cabochon shape. An image is carved into the flat side of the crystal and then hand painted. From the front, the picture appears to be almost three-dimensional. Many different images were used in reverse carved crystal jewelry and artwork but animals were some of the most common motifs. Fox hunting was a culture full of tradition and ceremony. Adopted by the British Nobility as a sport, riding “hounds” became a sign of status and social standing. Equestrian, hunting and sport motifs became very popular and were often found in Essex crystal jewelry.

A wonderful reverse carved Essex crystal pin from the Edwardian (ca1910s) era! Traditionally worn as part of a sporting ensemble, this style of pin was typically used to secure a man’s neck scarf. Crafted of 14kt yellow gold, the pin features a carved Essex crystal cabochon with the hand painted image of a realistic Rainbow Trout. The 3-dimensional fish displays a colorful lifelike body, textured scaly skin, and a fine tail and fins. The image rests above a shimmery Mother of Pearl background, showing through to the surface with soft shades of iridescent color. The bezel set Essex crystal is affixed to a gold bar, which is crafted to look like a 3-dimensional fly fishing rod, complete with a textured handle, thin wire line, and a round reel at the base. On the reverse side of the fishing rod is a gold bar pin and clasp, stamped “14K.” This stunning pin is still collectible today and worn by both men and women. Perfect for the fishing enthusiast, it may be fastened to a neck scarf or blazer, and would look fabulous worn with other similar pins in a collection!

Measurements: The pin measures 2 5/8″ long. The carved Essex crystal measures 9/16″ tall, 11/16″ wide and 1/4″ in depth.

Condition: The overall condition of the pin is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the gold setting or to the reverse carved Essex crystal. The pin clasp is secure and in good working condition.