Victorian Cut-Steel Cross Charm

THE STORY:

This cross charm is not only a timeless piece of history, but a classic design that deserves to be in every jewelry box! This cut-steel charm is the perfect wink of old-world bling that still brings a classic flair in modern times. This charm was originally made and sourced in England.

This charm measures 1.5" in height and 1" in width and hangs from a sterling silver bail. If you would like a swivel clasp added to your charm, click here to add to your cart. 

THE HISTORY:

Cut-steel jewelry was designed and “set” with tiny faceted and polished steel studs - fashioned to resemble gemstones. These small metal pieces were typically riveted in place and was originally meant to imitate gems like marcasite. This jewelry was typically fashioned in earrings, necklaces, brooches, bracelets, and even shoe and dress buckles. Unlike the paste gemstones of the 1700s, or cut crystal gems, cut-steel jewelry's most unique attribute lies in the fact that the setting and gemstone substitutes comprised of the same material. 

Cut-steel jewelry was produced as far back as the Elizabethan period in England but rose in demand - especially in France circa 1759, when cut-steel jewelry was worn as a substitute for donated (or hidden) jewelry when French King Louis XV ‘requested’ that citizens donate their precious gems and jewelry to help fund his military campaigns during the ‘Seven Years War’. The French spurred the English manufacturers in Woodstock and Birmingham with their overwhelming demand for the accessories due to this demand.