Classic French Vintage 18K Gold Augis "Qu'hier Que Demain" Love Charm Pendant with Laurel Border
This iconic French sentimental jewel by Augis, features the celebrated "Plus qu'hier, moins que demain" ("More than yesterday, less than tomorrow") motif and showcases a finely executed engine-turned sunburst ground framed by an ornate engraved laurel wreath border, all rendered in rich buttery-yellow 18k gold.
French Augis charm pendants—known as the “plus qu’hier, moins que demain” medallions—have a fascinating history that makes them especially beloved among collectors and romantics.
The inscription “+ qu’hier – que demain” (“more than yesterday, less than tomorrow”) comes from a line by French poet Rosemonde Gérard in a poem to her husband, Edmond Rostand, the author of Cyrano de Bergerac:
Car, vois-tu, chaque jour je t’aime davantage,
Aujourd’hui plus qu’hier et bien moins que demain.
(“Because, you see, each day I love you more—today more than yesterday, and much less than tomorrow.”)
The family business was founded in Lyon in 1830. Augis began producing these medallions around 1907–1908, registering them as a trademark. They quickly became the go-to love token for anniversaries, engagements, and Valentine’s Day. The tradition has continued unbroken for over a century, making these pendants both vintage treasures and part of living French jewelry culture. In France, these charms are a beloved cultural icon.
They are immediately recognizable to many French people—like a miniature love letter.
The center is accented with three vibrant synthetic rubies and a diamond-set cross composed of delicate rose-cut diamonds, creating the unmistakable Augis aesthetic that has made these charms highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
Details
• Size: approximately 7/8" (22 mm) diameter (without the bale and jump ring)
• Weight: ~7.15 grams
• Metal: 18k gold
• Hallmarks: French eagle head hallmark on the bale; "A.A." Augis workshop mark; reverse stamped "A. AUGIS DÉPOSÉ," indicating a registered Augis design. This hallmark combination is correct and consistent with authentic vintage Augis pieces.
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minor age wear. It displays a rich buttery-yellow gold tone, crisp engraving throughout the laurel border, and exceptionally well-preserved engine-turning on both the front and reverse.
*Due to the value of this item
-The price reflects a domestic shipping cost of $45, which includes tracking and insurance.
-International shipping uses USPS Priority Mail or UPS International with insurance. If you prefer a different shipping option, please contact the seller before purchase.
*The listing is for the 18K Augis charm pendant only. All other pairing jewelry items/ accessories are not part of the sale.