Georgian Secret Bee Silver Black Dot Paste Pendant

This chunky 19th century pendant hides a secret in plain sight - if you look at the centre you'll see a tiny bee, with the head, abdomen and wings picked out in simulated diamonds, tiny silver legs and a furry silver bottom.

The bee historically has been a symbol of immortality and rebirth, of vigilance and hard work, and of virginity and sweetness, as well as wisdom. In England it has also been the symbol of the city of Manchester since the 1800s - so there are many reasons why this might have had a special meaning for the original wearer of this piece!

The pendant would have started out as a different piece of Georgian jewellery, possibly a hat pin or button, and has at some time been converted with a substantial silver bail which can be hung on a chain or ribbon.

The piece is solid silver, set with old foil-backed stones which are, to be honest, a bit of a mystery! They don't test as paste or rock crystal, which would be the expected thing here. Possibly spinel, or sapphire, or white topaz - our readings are inconclusive. Some of the stones are black dot - the Georgians would paint a black dot on the bottom end of paste stones (the culet) to help give an illusion of depth and make them look more like real diamonds as they glittered in the candlelight. 

SIZE: Approximately 2.5 x 2.8cm, 4.5cm total length including the bail.

WEIGHT: 8.1g. 

MATERIALS: Silver, mystery stones...

HALLMARKS/STAMPS: None.

CONDITION: The pendant is in very good antique condition, the stones vary in colour but all are crisply faceted with no chips or major abrasions. 

ERA: Estimated Georgian (c.1714-1837).

Antique and vintage boxes photographed are for display only and are not included unless stated in the description.

Please be sure to examine all the photos carefully as they form part of the description, and do feel free to ask if you have any questions, we’re always happy to help where we can!