Antique Corno Ducale Headdress Enamel Diamond Pendant

This Victorian beauty is actually a Corno Ducale headdress.. which would have been worn by the Doge, the supreme magistracy of Most Serene Republic of Venice between 697 and May 1797!! It translates as the "ducal horn" from Italian and is a symbol of liberty. In a Venetian language it meant "jewel" and was made of red velvet with a gold rim. It features in today's coat of arms of the city of Venice. 

The pendant dates from later, the Victorian period. It is not hallmarked and tests as 18 karat, a buttery yellow gold. The crimson red enamel is just magnificent against the rich yellow gold and the darling rose cut diamonds are just gorgeous !! She was originally a brooch and we find she wears better as a pendant! She is a rare to find gem, a collector's piece most definitely and she is in the most incredible condition!! Oh and just to add... we can't help also seeing her as half a heart, perhaps your beloved's half ! That is our soppy selves talking!! We included pictures from Wikipedia to show you the origins of the idea for this gorgeous gem. 

The headdress part of the pendant measures 21.9 mm top to bottom and 15.3 mm side to side. Together with a bale she is 30.2 mm total length. She weighs 3.5 grams and is in fabulous antique condition.

We love .... this quirky half a heart pendant with such amazing connection to Italian history. A gorgeous piece of jewellery of superb quality. And what a conversation starter and a fascinating unique gem !

* Please kindly note that other jewellery in our photos is for your inspiration and not included in this listing *

A-735

THIS ITEM SHIPS;
FREE TO UK via Next Day Delivery.
FREE USPS SHIPPING TO US,CANADA AND EUROPE
EXPEDITED SHIPPING TO US,CANADA AND EUROPE VIA FEDEX OR DHL IS $45, please enquire
AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, JAPAN AND HONG KONG is $120.

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