This exquisite 15k gold antique French snowflake pendant-brooch is beautifully adorned with lustrous evenly-matched seed pearls. It is typical of the symbolism of late 19th century when jewelry design was deeply inspired by sentiment and the natural world. This versatile piece can be worn as a brooch or a pendant, and would have been given as a heartfelt token of love or protection—carrying a timeless message that still resonates today. A rare find, perfect for collectors or anyone seeking to add a piece of Victorian history to their jewelry wardrobe.
Sold with a modern gold-vermeil chain for immediate wearability. 
 
During the Victorian era, snowflakes were a symbol of uniqueness & individuality. By the mid-19th century, advances in microscopy and photography revealed the intricate, one-of-a-kind structure of snowflakes. Each flake’s uniqueness made it a natural symbol of individuality and the fleeting beauty of human life. Snowflakes were also a symbol of purity, innocence and the ephemeral beauty of life’s transience. This theme aligned closely with the Victorian fascination with memento mori and the fragility of existence. The Victorians also had a deep love for naturalistic designs—flowers, leaves, insects, shells, and even snowflakes were celebrated. A snowflake motif could signal both an appreciation for the natural world and the era’s excitement about new scientific discoveries in crystallography and natural history.
 
Sourced in France and curated by Paris-based Vivienne Birt for Chateau Love, this pendant embodies the timeless sophistication and meticulous artistry that defines our carefully selected chateau-worthy collection of luxurious antique and vintage jewelry. 
 
MATERIALS:
15 carat Gold, Seed Pearls 
 
AGE: 
1880s
 
CONDITION: 
Very good – surface wear commensurate with age and use 
 
SIZE:
Diameter: 3 cm
 
WEIGHT:
4.19 g