18K Gold Essex Crystal Pheasant Charm

At Kirsten’s Corner we always find a bit of magic in the reverse-painted Essex crystal items. They are made with a painstaking technique that involves carving on the back of the crystal and then delicately painting an image so that a three dimensional form is captured within the stone. In this charm, we see a pheasant flying above a grassy field. The bird has beautiful details, with each feather individually carved out. The ring around the pheasant’s neck makes a tiny added detail and indicates that this is a ringneck pheasant, and a lovely plume of golden feathers on the bird’s backside shows its grace. The crystal is backed in Mother of Pearl, adding another layer of luminous shine. The reference to snow globes is ever present and taps into childhood magic. 

The charm was converted from Edwardian cufflinks, circa 1910. We also have its counterpart, the 18K Gold Essex Crystal Wild Turkey Charm, available in our shop. 

The charm measures 1/2” across and 7/8” from top to bottom, including the bail. The bail’s opening measures 5.5 mm. The piece weighs 2.6 grams. Marked 750 for 18k gold. 

Also pictured with our 18K Gold Essex Crystal East-Flying Mallard Duck Charm and 18K Gold Essex Crystal West-Flying Mallard Duck Charm.