Outstanding Victorian half mourning brooch / pin / pendant. Carved opal set in 14k yellow gold (could be 18k) with enamel accents. Made circa 1880-90.

Measurements: total length is just over 1 inch. Opal is approx 11/16th inch (17mm) long. Weighs 5.1grams.

Oval with flattened top and bottom terminals. The cardinal points with raised areas of black enamel enclosed in gold cells, conforming to the half mourning of the era. The rest of the background is in delicate openwork foliage and filigree borders.

A raised opal forms the centerpiece of this jewel. It is truly outstanding - from the gorgeous range of colours, including deep blue, green, yellow with fabulous flash and fire, to the delicacy of the carving. The carving depicts a Classical female figure holding a long-sticked tool. Short skirt with wing-like capes flying outwards at her back. The details are beautiful - from the tiny toes, to her downwards look and upswept hair. 

The artist has chosen to reveal the natural ground of the stone and we can see the tones of golden browns in the background and when we turn it over and see the back. 

The piece can be worn either as a brooch or a pendant. It has a little mechanism that when pushed, a loop for threading a chain through, protrudes.

There are no hallmarks, but I tested the brooch for at least 14k and it in fact stays for 18k.

Good condition as shown by the enlarged 'photos.