Antique Imperial Russian Brooch. Victorian Art Nouveau period. Diamonds, 14k gold and Sterling Silver. Made Russia, St Petersburg, 1908 - 1917.
Measurements:
At least 1.85ct diamonds. (two appraisers: one measured 1.85 carats, the other approx. 2 carats diamonds). Weighs 9.2 grams. 1 5/8 inches (42mm) long.
Description:
3 antique cushion cut diamonds and 17 old mine cut diamonds. Gold back topped by Sterling Silver in knife edge scrolls and fanning curves hold diamonds as stylized buds and flowers. Tiny, delicate foliage. The 3 central diamonds prong set, the smaller diamonds bezel set. Diamonds seem to float and sparkle in the air. Hinged bar pin and two shepherds hook bails. Tiny signs that there were independent loops threaded through the openwork bars, to hang the brooch as a necklace.
Marks:
The bar is hallmarked CM - maker's name. The brooch marked with 56 between two heads. 56 is for 56 Zolotniks, which is the Russian approx. 14k gold standard. The head on the left of the Zolotnik, facing right, is the Kokoshnik mark, dating the brooch to 1908-1917. The head on the right of the 56 places the origin to St. Petersburg.
Condition:
good, with minor wear commensurate with age. Independent appraisal available to new owner upon request.
