Reverse carved crystal was a technique created by cutting pieces of rock quartz crystal into a convex form and then polishing it into a cabochon shape. An image is carved into the flat side of the crystal and then hand painted. From the front, the picture appears to be almost three dimensional. Many different images were used in reverse carved crystal jewelry and artwork, but animals were some of the most commonly used.

A beautiful MARCUS & CO. reverse carved crystal pin from the Edwardian (ca1910) era! Traditionally worn as a part of a fox hunter's sporting ensemble, this style of pin was typically worn to secure a man's neck scarf. Made of 14kt yellow gold, the pin features the hand painted image of a horse's head within a reverse carved Essex crystal, which rests on a shimmery mother of pearl background. The horse is highly detailed, including pointed ears, a rich brown coat and white patch on its face, and a bridle and reigns for riding. The bezel set crystal is affixed to a gold bar, which is crafted to look  like a 3-dimensional riding crop complete with textured detail and platinum accents. On the reverse side of the riding crop is a gold bar pin and clasp stamped "14K" and "MARCUS & CO." The pin comes in its original grey box with a cream satin and velvet interior, which is stamped "WATCHMAKER TO THE ADMIRALTY, Edward Ewen, F.S.M.C., B.O.A., (London), DUMFRIES." This stunning pin is still collectable today, worn by both men and women. Perfect for the equestrian enthusiast, it may be fastened to a neck scarf or blazer, and would look fabulous worn with other similar pins in a collection!

Measurements: The pin measures approximately 2 1/8" long. The round crystal measures slightly over 1" in diameter and is 1/4" thick.

Condition: The overall condition of the pin is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the gold setting or to the reverse carved crystal. The pin clasp is secure and in good working condition. The box shows normals signs of wear commensurate with age, but is still in good condition with a working clasp.