Exquisite emerald and ruby mandolin  pendant c.1820.
15 ct gold in three colours yellow, green and rose with beautiful floral and foliate chasing particular to the domed reverse which opens to reveal a locket.
Original double micro belcher chain and reeded bale. 
Truly a tour de force of the goldsmiths art. 
9.5 grams.
4.5 cms length.
In the late c18th the  mandolin was considered a suitable, elegant instrument for young women from wealthy or noble families to play in a salon setting. By the early c19th it became a fashionable motif in sentimental jewellery, serving as a symbol of romantic love, courtship, and refined leisure.