Belle Époque Amethyst Pendant with Life-Size 18ct Gold Fly | French c.1900

This unusual Belle Époque pendant from France, c.1900, combines lightness, wit, and skilled craftsmanship.

A large faceted amethyst hangs below a miniature fly in chased 18ct gold, as if it’s just landed for a moment on the 18 carat amethyst. That combination of subtle irreverence and perfect execution is classic Paris c.1900.

The contrast is striking: the polished warmth of gold against the saturated violet of the amethyst, whose faceted sides catch the light while the front remains smooth and weighty.

The fly, a symbol of fleeting beauty, mischief, and transformation, is rendered with remarkable realism: its lifesize legs, wings, and body clearly formed in expert detail.

The pendant plays with expectations: it’s elegant and beautiful, but never too serious.

It carries all the sophistication of Belle Époque design, yet retains a sense of fun - a touch of the surreal in a world of refinement.

At just 2.5cm tall, it’s wearable, cheeky, and so chic.

A piece that draws you in, then makes you smile.

Available exclusively at ELTONS, Grays Antique Market, Mayfair, London.