NEW TO ORL
This superb serpent is beautifully crafted in 18ct gold, with sparkling rose-cut diamond eyes and a fabulous cushion-cut turquoise blue topaz crowning its head. I absolutely love this piece—it’s so beautifully made.
Originally, this was most likely an antique clasp, but it has since been transformed into a wonderfully quirky pendant, complete with a generously sized fixed bale that’s perfect for all your chunky chains and dog clips.
Just look at those teeth! Every little detail has been so carefully executed, giving this serpent bags of personality.
This is an antique piece, although the blue topaz is a later historic replacement rather than the original stone. It does make me wonder what gemstone this handsome fellow would originally have worn. The replacement topaz weighs approximately one carat and sits in a lovely cushion-cut setting that complements the streamlined profile beautifully. Open-backed window, allowing the light to flood through and really intensify that incredible pop of blue.
A wonderfully substantial piece with a lovely weight, it would look fantastic layered into a neck stack. This little chap is guaranteed to turn heads with a little extra sparkle.
The Details
Era: Victorian
Material: 18ct Gold/ Topaz/ Diamond
Hallmarks: XRF tested
Measurements: 3.85g / 31mm drop inc bail x 10mm wide x 6mm depth
Condition: Excellent antique condition - beautiful tone gold. Some light inclusions on topaz stone shown under loupe. General wear commensurate with age.
Packaging: This item will be hand-tied with my branded ribbon, boxed with a thank you note and packaged in sustainable discreet packaging.
SKU: VSBTP-18J
FREE DELIVERY INCLUDED
PROPS & BOXES IN THE PHOTOS ARE FOR DISPLAY ONLY
SALE IS FOR PENDANT ONLY
An absolute charmer and super rare find. This 18ct gold antique hand pendant has the loveliest textured frill glove and wonderfully miniature details from the stud button to the almost velvet like glove. The hand was once a stick pin and has been beautifully converted into a pendant, now cradling a vibrant natural ruby set in a claw. This is such an intricate rare piece: I have reused the original 18ct gold pin as the bail to preserve as much of the antique character as possible, you will notice the bail is twisted and subtly faceted, which compliments the beautiful details of this hand. Hand motifs are my absolute favourite, and this charming example is particularly special.
The original stone was sadly lost over time, in keeping with the piece, I have used a fabulous antique natural ruby in a vivid, deep pink that sits beautifully against the richly textured gold.
There is so much to love about this piece from the delicate frilled cuff and tiny stud button to the beautifully frosted gold glove, every element is full of personality. Dating to the late Georgian period, there is a little enamel loss, but the remaining black enamel decoration can still be seen. Hand motifs were deeply symbolic in Georgian and Victorian jewellery — often representing fidelity, friendship, affection or a heartfelt promise.
A striking piece—beautiful alone or layered for a unique, vibrant look.
The Details
Era: Late Georgian
Material: 18ct Gold, Natural Ruby
Hallmarks: XRF Tested 18ct
Measurements: 2.18g/ 25mm drop inc bail x 7.4mm wide
Condition: Very good antique condition - some light enamel loss on the cuff.
Packaging: This item will be hand-tied with my branded ribbon, boxed with a thank you note and packaged in sustainable discreet packaging.
SKU: VHRP-18J
FREE DELIVERY INCLUDED
PROPS & BOXES IN THE PHOTOS ARE FOR DISPLAY ONLY
SALE IS FOR PENDANT ONLY
A super rare Victorian swallow in flight, crafted with rose-cut diamonds and cabochon rubies for the eyes. The lovely little bird proudly displays approx 1ct of diamonds — it looks fabulous layered in a stack or worn solo as a striking statement piece. The swallow is set in oxidised silver and hand-etched with exquisite detail and the deep ruby eyes add a little pop of colour. Originally gold-backed, that layer has lifted a little over the years but there are still signs of his original colour. To the back his belly is smooth and feels lovely against the skin.
I adore how sweetly detailed this bird remains. Victorians were deeply sentimental, so gifting a swallow signified love, hope and safe returns, especially when a loved one was travelling.
Diamond swallows like this are increasingly rare, particularly with such chunky, well-matched rose cut diamonds. This is a good size too with a nice size bail to attach to your bolt rings and chains.
Looks brilliant worn on its own or layered within a stack for extra sparkle.
The Details
Era: Victorian
Material: Silver/ Gold wash/ 9ct Gold bail and attachment/ Diamond/ Ruby
Measurements: 34mm drop inc bail x 21mm wide / 2.6g / approx 1 carat diamond
Condition: Very good antique condition - oxidised silver through age/ some historic discolour to the back of the swallow. All stones are secure, see photos for reference.
Packaging: This item will be hand-tied with my branded ribbon, boxed with a thank you note and packaged in sustainable discreet packaging.
SKU: VSWDP-SJ
FREE DELIVERY INCLUDED
PROPS & BOXES IN THE PHOTOS ARE FOR DISPLAY ONLY
SALE IS FOR PENDANT ONLY
Welcome to OLD RUBY LUCK, where I showcase my latest discoveries. Each item is truly one of a kind. There are only one of these items - so be quick!
Your Place to Find Fine Antique & Vintage Jewellery
THE BEAUTIFUL & THE MYSTERIOUS
The items you will find here are items that I am fond off, items that have stories and messages behind them - all fascinating and mysterious. Follow me as I chase to find some of the wonderful pieces from the past.
Explore my carefully curated selection and find your perfect treasure.
Mission
Seeing so much gold being melted down was the incentive for starting this business. There were so many pieces that were far too good to melt and be lost to history — each one carrying stories and craftsmanship worth saving. Sustaining antique jewellery means caring for every piece with respect for its history and materials, so these treasures remain beautiful, meaningful and ready to be worn and cherished by future generations.
The beauty of many of these pieces has endured far longer than any of us, and it is thanks to their previous owners that we can enjoy these precious objects today. This approach not only protects these treasures from destruction, it is also one of the most sustainable ways to keep alive our love for jewellery and the traditions behind it.