Georgian 9ct Gold Pendant set with Natural Split Pearls, Diamonds & Red Paste

In Georgian jewellery, red paste refers to a type of high-lead-content flint glass that has been expertly crafted to imitatethe appearance and brilliance of red gemstones, most commonly garnets and rubies.
Metal oxides or pigments were added during the glass-making process to achieve a vibrant crimson or ruby hue, effectively mimicking precious red stones. Unlike modern costume jewellery, antique paste stones were meticulously hand-cut and polished using the same techniques as real diamonds, a labour intensive process that elevated their status. To further enhance the brilliance and colour, a thin layer of coloured foil (often silver) was placed behind the closed-back settings of the red paste stones. This helped reflect light and intensified the gem’s appearance, especially in candlelit settings.
Paste was an alternative to rare and expensive gemstones, and paste jewellery became highly popular during the Georgian era (1714-1830). It allowed a wider social strata to wear ornate jewellery that matched contemporary fashions.

Far from being a cheap substitute, high-quality paste jewellery was prized in its own right and worn by the aristocracy,