Emergency Rainbows : Antique Australian Opal Chip Phial Pendant in 15ct Gold circa 1890

I’m not sure in what hind of emergency you’d need to break this glass, but it is what springs to mind when looking at this exquisite opal chip specimen phial. While I have seen other, later examples of opal chip jewellery, this is the first time I’ve seen one with gorgeous engraved caps in 15ct gold. I would hazard that this is a very early example of a type of jewellery that went on to be hugely popular – ie: the “floating opal” jewellery of the early to mid 20th century that featured opal chips suspended in glycerine. The only thing inside this glass chamber is chips of Australian white opal, which although unpolished still show a subtle shimmer of rainbow hues. Manufacture  Handmade in 15ct gold, stamped 15ct to one of the end caps. The gold fineness has been verified by XRF test. the 15ct gold caps are covered in extra fine and exquisite engraving. Between the caps is a clear glass cylinder filled with chips of Australian white opal. The pendant has a drop of 34mm The phial measures 35.18mm x 9mm x 9mm. Weighs 4.18 grams. Condition  Very good antique condition. The only item to note is that on the reverse the engraving has rubbed away in a small spot on each side. This is not visible when worn. Otherwise in excellent condition overall.