Antique Italian Micro Mosaic Clasp, Brooch, Sand Size Tesserae, c.1820s

This one is very early, super-tiny sand sized tesserae in colored glass, set into a red glass basin and further into a c.1820-30s bracelet or necklace clasp of good size. Later addition of a hinged pin and clasp, it has been used through Victorian era as a brooch. It still will be useful as an elaborate bracelet clasp, or large necklace clasp though with simple adjustment. The insert of clasp and opposite side each will take 3 strands. Imagine it with pearls strung, or even red glass beads, as a graduated necklace, large clasp worn at the front. I have not tested the metal, but think it is a silver with 18k vermeil mount. Measurements are on our photos. A great old one.

Very good condition for very advanced age and fragile type. Super tiny sand sized glass tesserae throughout, not missing a single one. There is a fine tight hairline in the red glass, visible in our greatly enlarged photos, but it remains stable an dis not a break that shows to the backside, or has been professionally braced, one. The piece is 1 1/2″ x 1″, will make a fabulous clasp for a necklace, or remain wearable as a brooch.