STYLE
ERA
French hand carved coquilla viniagrette pendant c.1820
This French vinaigrette pendant, dating to the 1820s, is crafted in solid 18k gold with a body made from hand-carved coquilla nut, a seed from the Brazilian palm tree.
Coquilla nuts were introduced to Europe in the 18th century and became a popular material for small carvings, remaining widely used throughout the 19th century. Known for their deep black-brown or reddish-brown hues and durable texture, these seeds were ideal for intricate designs. They were often featured in everyday jewelry, religious artifacts, and mourning pieces.
This petite pendant is adorned with floral and foliate carvings, complemented by cross-hatched patterns on the base, giving it a charming, rustic feel.
The piece is in good antique condition, showing normal signs of oxidation and wear consistent with age. As condition assessments are subjective, please click and enlarge our photos to examine additional details as part of your evaluation.