14K & Antique Mother-of-Pearl Gambling Chip square
with open work post Earrings enhanced with Blue Topaz briolettes. Also
available in Peridot, Amethyst & Pink Tourmaline. This unusual,
handcrafted Chinese work of art dating back more than 250 years was
once a gambling chip. Very fashionable at the time, many of the mother
of earl pieces were custom-made at the request of British royalty and
nobility, bearing family crests and or initials on one side. Most of
the counters were made while brilliant philosopher Ching Lung was in
power from 1736 until 1796. A heavy, carved variety counter cut from
thicker mother of pearl was crafted during the rule of Chia Ching
between 1800 and 1820. Approximately 100 years ago, these Chinese works
of art were transported to England when the British were ousted from
China for perpetuating the Opium Wars. During their more than 250 year
life span, these counters have been cherished by royalty and nobility
and many other historical personalities. Only now, a full century
later, are they being rediscovered and appreciated once again for their
exquisite beauty.
Designed by Donna Chambers.