We love fine jewellery with a sense of fun – optical illusions that draw the eye and trick the senses.

And here’s a late Victorian “pool of light” pendant with a difference.

Instead of being carved from a quartz rock crystal, the orb inside this finely made gold frame is a solid piece of glass.

And inside the glass is lively opal, which appears petite from one side and much larger from the other.

That said, it’s a complete mystery how this was made – it has puzzled both my valuer and my goldsmith. Nor are we certain how the illusion works.

Sometimes it’s better not to mess with magic!

FREE WORLDWIDE EXPRESS SHIPPING, TRACKED AND INSURED

• Handmade in nine-carat yellow gold
• Set with glass and a solid Australian opal (untested)
• Approximately 2.8cm (1 inch) in diameter
• Weight is 15.9 grams
• In excellent antique condition
• Will come in a Karen Deakin gift box (my antique boxes are not for sale)
• Note: some of the other antique jewellery is for sale separately (some has sold) – please get in touch if you’d like information about any of it

Please examine the photographs carefully – they form part of the description.

I’d be very happy to send more information and images. Layaway available.

I accept returns within 14 days if you’re not delighted with your purchase.