How do I care for my pendant?

Enamel and pearls are sensitive to harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners and prolonged immersion in water. Wipe them gently with a soft, dry cloth after wearing and store them away from harder metals to prevent scratching. Perfumes, lotions and hairsprays should be applied before putting on the jewellery to protect the delicate surface of the glass and the organic nacre of the pearls.

Were these always worn on necklaces?

Many surviving examples were manufactured with dual fittings, featuring both a hidden or fold-down suspension loop and a secure pin stem on the reverse. This allowed the owner to wear the item interchangeably as a brooch or suspended from a chain. Original configurations often depended on the fashion of the decade, shifting from pinned bodice ornaments in the Victorian era to suspended lavallieres during the Edwardian period.

How can I tell Victorian from Edwardian pieces?

Victorian items generally display heavier gold mounts, darker enamel palettes associated with mourning or sentimental symbolism, and robust construction like closed-back settings. Motifs often include serpents, hands, and heavy floral clusters. Edwardian pieces tend to utilise lighter silver-on-gold settings, brighter pastel or guilloche enamel, and airy garlands of platinum or diamonds, reflecting a shift toward delicate, lace-like aesthetics.