Edwardian Alphabet Flag Essex Crystal Pendant c.1910

A quirky Edwardian Essex crystal pendant.

The double sided cabochon cut rock crystal has the 26 alphabet flags painted across both sides along with their corresponding letters. They have a mother of pearl backing to the centre making the decoration shine out. The painting is in excellent condition with no deterioration to the design. Typical of the era the pendant is set within a plain gold band and a runner ring for a chain or cord.

The pendant does not have a chain but we can source one (at an additional charge) if required. 

This technique is made by the rock crystal being cut into a cabochon shape and a detailed design carved into it from the reverse. The image is painted inside the crystal so that when viewed from the front it appears in three dimensions. This technique is known as a “reverse intaglio.” The technique is sometimes referred to as an 'Essex crystal.'

For hundreds of years, flags have been used to allow the crew of one ship to ‘speak’ with another, with the designs of some being so iconic that they have become a staple of pirate-related pop culture. The International Code of Signals (ICS) is a standardised series of signals – encompassing the use of flags, designed in such a way that it can be universally understood regardless of what language the crew may speak. These flags represent the 26 letters of the alphabet. Each flag also has its own specific meaning, separate from whatever letter it represents.

Era: Edwardian, 1901 - 1920

Measurements: Pendant 1.8cm in diameter, 5.6 grams in weight

Hallmarks: No assay marks - tests 18ct gold