Butterfly Dance Tassel Hairpin

In the palaces of the Qing dynasty, the hairpins of imperial consorts were among the most finely wrought of all adornments, their materials chosen with care, the number of Manchurian pearls and gemstones marking a wearer's rank. This hairpin, modelled on a Qing dynasty silver-gilt butterfly pin, carries that spirit into a single graceful piece. A butterfly poises as though caught mid-flight, its wings carved from mother-of-pearl into layered blossoms, a red agate cabochon glowing at its body, pearls and fine stones scattered like dew. Beneath it hangs a detachable tassel that sways with every step. Worn plain or with the tassel, it lends the hair a quiet, dancing grace.

Key Features

• The Butterfly, Poised in Flight: The butterfly is a beloved Chinese symbol of joy, love, and transformation. Here it is captured mid-flutter, wings open, as though it might lift from the hair at any moment.
• Mother-of-Pearl Wings: The wings are carved from natural mother-of-pearl into layered blossoms, luminous and softly iridescent, each with its own unique shimmer.
• Red Agate Body: A cabochon of natural red agate forms the butterfly's body, its rich, warm colour a striking counterpoint to the pale wings.
• Detachable Tassel: The beaded tassel detaches from the pin, so the piece can be worn two ways, plain for everyday, or with the tassel for occasions that call for movement and drama.
• Pearl and Stone Detailing: Faux pearls and fine stones are set throughout the design, catching the light the way the ranked pearls of a consort's pin once did.
• A Gift from the Palace Museum: Produced by the Beijing Palace Museum Cultural Development Company, part of the Gifts from the Palace Museum line, and presented in a hardcover gift box with a velvet pouch and carrier bag.

Materials & Details

• Thickened 18K gold plating
• Natural mother-of-pearl (贝母), red agate (红玛瑙), and chalcedony (玉髓)
• Faux pearl accents
• Hairpin length: approx. 19cm
• Detachable tassel
• Presented in a hardcover gift box (approx. 10 x 21 x 3.5cm) with a velvet pouch and carrier bag

Care

Keep away from water, perfume, and prolonged sunlight. Store in a soft pouch or jewellery box when not in use. Wipe gently with a dry cloth after wear.