Frequently Asked Questions

What is a micro mosaic pill box?

A micro mosaic pill box is a small decorative container adorned with hand-set glass tesserae (tiny pieces of glass). Each one is a miniature work of art and no two are ever the same.

Where do these pieces come from?

These boxes originated in Italy, often purchased by travelers on the Grand Tour in the 19th and 20th centuries. They were cherished souvenirs and symbols of refinement.

How old are the pieces?

A majority of our collection dates from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s. Because these are vintage and antique pieces, exact dates and origins cannot always be verified, but each one has been described to the best of our knowledge.

Are the pill boxes handmade?

Yes, while the base of the box may vary in degree to which it was hand built, the mosaics themselves were always crafted and set by hand. Each tessera was carefully designed and placed by a skilled artisan.

Are these boxes usable today?

Absolutely, though most are collected as decorative art. They can hold small pills, trinkets, or keepsakes. Due to age, we recommend gentle use and treating them as fragile heirlooms but they are well built and can be a part of your every day. They are the perfect blend of both form and function.

Do you restore or alter the pieces?

We gently clean each box so its details can be fully appreciated, but we stop short of altering its structure. We don’t reset tesserae or adjust hinges, as we feel the integrity of the piece lies in its original workmanship, imperfections included. What you see is their original character, preserved rather than remade.

What about shipping and returns?

We package every item with care. Shipping details and our return policy can be found at the bottom of our website.