Micromosaic

Micromosaic is a highly detailed form of mosaic decoration made from extremely small pieces of coloured glass, known as tesserae, which are arranged to create detailed images and patterns.

Micromosaic jewellery became particularly fashionable in Italy during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, especially in Rome. It was closely associated with the Grand Tour, when wealthy European travellers visited Italy and purchased jewellery and decorative objects as souvenirs.

Unlike conventional mosaic, which uses relatively large pieces, micromosaic uses exceptionally small tesserae that can be arranged to reproduce detailed scenes, landscapes, buildings, flowers and classical subjects. Some examples contain thousands of individual pieces.

Roman views and classical scenes were particularly popular, making micromosaic jewellery an important part of the wider tradition of Grand Tour jewellery. Pieces could include brooches, pendants, bracelets, earrings and rings, often mounted in gold or other precious metals.

The quality of a micromosaic is determined partly by the fineness and precision of the tesserae and the skill with which they are assembled. Antique examples can therefore demonstrate extraordinary levels of craftsmanship.

At Weldons, micromosaic jewellery is valued for its intricate workmanship, Italian provenance, historical interest and decorative beauty.

Origin: Particularly associated with Rome, Italy
Period: Especially 18th and 19th centuries
Material: Tiny pieces of coloured glass
Typical subjects: Roman views, classical scenes, flowers and landscapes
Historical association: Grand Tour jewellery