Antique Italian Micro Mosaic Goldstone Brooch Pin w Gold Rolled Setting c 1900

This is an antique brooch featuring Italian micro mosaic tile work set in goldstone, which is a type of aventurine glass (glass infused with copper powder). The goldstone is set within a gold rolled metal setting. The piece measures 1 1/4 in height by 1 in width. It is amazing when one thinks that each of those tiny glass tiles was placed there by hand - this must have taken many hours of work to make and it is puzzling as to how the work was embedded in glass. The brooch dates to the 1890 to 1910 period. It has a C shape catch, but the original pin has been replaced by a nail. It functions, but is not the best - of course, no one would know that the pin was replaced but the wearer. Otherwise, the piece is in very good condition and presents itself very well when posed on a garment. Intricate work, beautiful quality!