HUMANS HAVE CARRIED and worn lucky charms forever. Although the 19th and 20th centuries were thought to be ages of reason and science (and definitely not superstition) people still kept horseshoes close, just in case. Iron was believed to guard against trouble, so full-size shoes were nailed above doorways. The crescent shape also reached back to much older, pre-Christian lunar goddesses of protection. Here, a glowing garnet is carved to resemble the "frog", a part of the horse's foot. Diamonds (lucky 7!) amplify the good fortune; they're rose cuts in square settings. MATERIALS: 14k gold (tests), carved garnet, 7 1mm rose cut diamonds, new 14k gold chain
AGE: c. 1890
CONDITION: Very good
SIZE: 7/8" length including the bale, 5/8" width, 18" chain