Antique: Large Paste Horseshoe Pendant "Lady Luck"

This spectacular pendant is in the shape of a horseshoe and is comprised of graduated pastes set in silver. It is truly an unusual piece because of its size, the craftsmanship, and the brightness and sparkle of the old pastes. Each stone is individually prong set into its own separate closed back setting. Originally a brooch, we have added a bail to convert it to a pendant.

A classic motif, the horseshoe was incorporated into jewelry during both the Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian periods. As the trend of giving sporting jewels rose in popularity during the last quarter of the 19th century, so did the associated motifs: horseshoes, buckles, sails, polo mallets, etc.

There are divergent points of view on how best to display the horseshoe: points down (above a doorway) to shower luck on all those that walk by, or points up to ensure the luck doesn't run out. We sit firmly in the latter camp and we are calling this dazzling piece - Lady Luck. Here's hoping you have a lucky streak when you wear it!

Dimensions & Details

• The horseshoe is comprised of paste stones set in silver and is 1.5 inches long and by 1.3 inches wide, at widest point.

• Most likely England or France.

• 19th c. No Hallmarks.

• The pastes are quite bright and the piece is in good to very good antique condition. There is some general wear as would be expected: some minor scratches and nibbles to the paste (visible only under magnification).

Outside of the U.S.? Please contact us for a shipping quote.

If you are interested in reading more about the jewelry terms or decorative periods referenced throughout our site, visit our Resources section for additional information.

Find out how to care for your collection of antique and modern jewels: visit our Jewelry Care page to get advice on maintaining and storing your treasured pieces. Please note that antique paste should not be cleaned with anything other than a dry, soft, untreated cloth. Do not use water, submerge in water, or apply any sort of chemical treatment or cleaning solution.