mosaic gold
[mosaic a.1 and n.]
† 1. [= F. or de mosaïque (Dict. de Trévoux).] (See quot. 1727–41.) Obs.
| 1727–41 Chambers Cycl. s.v. Gold, Mosaic Gold, is gold applied in panels on a proper ground, distributed into squares, lozenges, and other compartments; part whereof is shadowed to raise or heighten the rest. |
2. [tr. late L. aurum mūsīvum.] A disulphide of tin.
| 1746 H. Pemberton Dispens. 220 Aurum Musivum. Mosaic Gold. Take of tin one pound; of flowers of sulphur seven ounces; sal-ammoniac [etc.]. 1890 Brannt Metal Worker's Handy-Bk. 149 Red Bronze is produced by the application of red bronze lacquer or red bronze powder or red mosaic gold. |
3. An alloy of copper and zinc, used for cheap jewellery and ornamental metal work; = ormolu.
| 1839 in Ure Dict. Arts 869. 1852 Mrs. Smythies Bride Elect xiv, The metal was mosaic gold..and the emeralds..were bits of green glass. |