Victorian Ruby & Diamond Horseshoe Necklace

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, the 7 (lucky!) nails are made of rose cut diamonds and old cut rubies set in square mounts.  MATERIALS: 14k gold (tests), 4 rose cut diamonds, 3 old cut rubies, new 14k gold chain AGE: c. 1890 CONDITION: Very good - likely converted from a stickpin into a pendant SIZE: 7/8" length including the bale, 1/2" width, 18" chain