Victorian fascination with ornithology grew throughout the 19th century as books like John James Audubon's Birds of America became best sellers and spurned hobbies like bird watching and maintaining aviaries. That there could be a sentimental meaning attached to each bird heightened the collective interest in the subject. That secret language of birds was reflected in Victorian jewelry: everything from bird brooches to bird earrings to bird pendants was in fashion!

A wonderful animal jewel, this pendant shows a talon’d and scaled bird foot, clutching a fin-shaped river pearl, inset with a beautiful sapphire at the top.

Converted from a stick pin to a pendant, this detail-focused jewel is tiny but mighty. The claw prongs are truly remarkable, creating a bespoke grip around that central pearl. A wonderful addition to any charm collection.

Materials and Features: sapphire, pearls, 14k gold

Age/Origin: Victorian, c. 1880, American

Measurements: 3.4 grams

Condition: Excellent condition. Minor associated age wear.

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.