A wonderfully unusual piece of genuine Victorian equestrian jewelry, this antique horse-head charm is hand carved from luminous mother-of-pearl and finished with delicate gold-filled bridle details.
Dating to the Victorian era, the miniature horse has remarkable character for its scale. The sculpted mane follows the natural shimmer of the mother-of-pearl, while the bridle, reins and tiny eye bring definition and personality to the carving.
Turn the piece in the light and the mother-of-pearl changes beautifully—from creamy ivory to soft silvery tones with flashes of natural iridescence. Because this is a natural material, those subtle variations are part of what makes the piece so special.
Originally created more than a century ago, today it makes an extraordinary charm or pendant. Wear it alone on a fine chain, suspend it from a charm holder, or mix it into a collected necklace of antique and vintage treasures.
For an equestrian, it is especially wonderful: a genuine Victorian horse charm rather than a modern interpretation of one.
DETAILS
• Genuine Victorian-era antique
• English
• Carved mother-of-pearl horse head
• Gold-filled bridle and metal details
• Natural mother-of-pearl with characteristic iridescence
• Approx. 25mm H × 24mm W × 4mm D
• Integrated jump ring for wearing as a charm or pendant
• One of a kind
CONDITION
Antique condition with age-related wear, patina and surface variation consistent with a piece more than a century old.
Mother-of-pearl is a natural material and may display variations in color, texture and surface character. These are part of the individuality of the piece rather than characteristics of modern, machine-made jewelry.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.
HISTORY & INSPIRATION
The Victorian era produced an extraordinary variety of miniature jewelry and personal objects celebrating everything from sentiment and symbolism to sport and country life.
Horses occupied a particularly important place in Victorian society—not only as transportation, but through racing, hunting, riding and country pursuits. Equestrian motifs consequently found their way into jewelry, fobs and other personal accessories.
Carved natural materials such as mother-of-pearl allowed jewelers and carvers to create remarkably expressive miniature objects. More than a century later, pieces like this feel surprisingly modern when worn as charms and pendants.
We especially love antique charms mixed with contemporary chains and other collected pieces—the sort of jewelry that feels personal rather than perfectly matched.
CARE & MAINTENANCE
Mother-of-pearl requires gentle care. Wipe carefully with a soft, slightly damp cloth when necessary and dry immediately.
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, abrasives, prolonged water exposure and aggressive metal polishing. Perfume and cosmetics should be allowed to dry before putting on the piece.
PLEASE NOTE
Please view all photographs carefully and pay close attention to measurements. Antique jewelry is not expected to appear new, and our assessment of condition may differ from yours.
Please contact us with any questions before purchasing. No returns on jewelry.
Comes ready to gift in a beautiful blue velvet jewelry pouch.
A tiny piece of Victorian equestrian history—and a particularly beautiful one for the horse lover or collector.
