The Victorian era was highly influenced by Romanticism in its jewelry fabrication and a compassionate jewelry motif was the bird - often a dove or a swallow. Swallows were illustrated beautifully in fine jewelry because of their gliding slender streamlined bodies and forked long pointed wings. They had a special meaning for seafarers because these birds were the first sign that land was near. Swallows were thought to lead ships home and prevent them from being lost. The meaning assigned to these birds became ‘to safely return home’ and so they were often given to loved ones when they set out on a journey. They also symbolized ‘heart and home’ and were associated with faithfulness.

'Pietra Dura' is the technique of using small, exquisitely cut and fitted, highly-polished colored stones to create what amounts to a painting in stone. The stonework is assembled together so precisely that the contact between each section is practically invisible.

This gorgeous pendant from the Victorian era is a wonderful example of the Pietra Dura art form! Crafted in 18kt yellow gold, this oval-shaped piece is adorned with a swallow carrying olive branches in his beak (a symbol of peace).

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In celebration of the 10th anniversary of Ariel Gordon Jewelry, we’re so proud to introduce Heritage by Ariel Gordon, a collection of vintage and estate jewelry curated by Ariel to bring new life to these treasured pieces.

“It felt inspiring and motivating to me to stop for a moment and reflect on all the different reasons that people have worn jewelry throughout the years - the heritage of the industry that I'm a part of. I get a lot of satisfaction thinking about the sustainable life cycle of jewelry and that I'm bringing new life to old pieces. I design my own collection to live forever and be heirlooms so it's so exciting that I'm getting to honor these pieces in the same way. It's a fantasy of mine that 100 years from now, someone will discover one of my pieces, and it would have the same special meaning to them—with the stories and memories it's collected over the years.”

To curate this assortment, Ariel scoured trade shows, flea markets, private collections, and beyond to find authentic, one of a kind jewelry. Every piece in the collection was purchased by Gordon in person so she could fully vet the quality and authenticity.

• Era: 1885-1895
• Hallmark: none
• Metal: 18k gold
• Stones:turquoise,obsidian inlay in marble
• Measurements:2/3" x 1/2"
• Condition: Good (item shows moderate wear)

Please note this charm is sold without a chain. If you'd like it on one of our chains, please select one in the drop down and we will assemble it for you. If you'd like to see full length shots of the various chain styles, head over .

If you'd like to layer it on your own necklace at home, that may or may not require a jeweler to solder it (it all depends on the size of the bail + the clasp on your personal chain). In an effort to streamline things and save everyone time and money on shipping, if you need it professionally assembled on your personal jewelry, we politely decline that service and recommend taking it to a local jeweler. We're happy to give our input on how they should assemble if needed.

The entirety of the Heritage by Ariel Gordon Collection has been inspected by a 3rd generation, GIA-certified Estate Jewelry dealer so we feel confident about the pieces that we are passing on to you. Every piece here has survived generationsand we are so excited that they are finding a new home with you. Please keep in mind that these heirlooms are sold as-is and willshow wear consistent with their age. We believe that this wear isn't a defect, rather it's proof that the piece was wornwith love in generations past. We will describe any notable wear or damage as accurately aspossible and to the best of our ability. We are only selling pieces thatwe've determined are in wearable condition. That being said, please know that jewelry in general is fragile, especially antique jewelry and should be handled with extra care.We will assess all repair requests on Heritage pieces on a case by case basis.

We know that shopping online for estate pieces can be intimidating, which is why we will accept returns on our Heritage pieces (with limited terms). Due to the one-of-a kind nature of these pieces, you can return it within 5 days of receipt of the item with a $25 restocking fee.

If you're unsure about anything, please reach out to us via our with any specific questions about thisitem.