Antique Victorian brooch. Gold, silver, pearl, ruby and sapphire. Origin not certain - could be English.
Unisex - suitable for a man or a woman. Red, white and blue.
Independent gemological appraisal.
Measurements:
Weight is 11.90 grams. 1 1/2 inches long (A little under 4cm). Largest diamond 0.70ct and smaller diamonds 2.79ct.
Description :
Brooch in the form of a 3-lobed flower. Each lobe is centered by a gem with a red, white and blue theme. Ruby, sapphire and pearl. The ruby and sapphire are raised by yellow gold prongs that lift them above the rest of the gems. Similarly, the pearl is higher and on an equal plain to the ruby and sapphire. Each of these three gems is surrounded by a pear-shaped ring of diamonds with the space between also diamond-filled. The diamonds are beautifully pave set and their cut is a combination of Old European and Old Mine cuts. These smaller diamonds are approximately 2.79ct. At the point where the 3 lobes meet, is a much larger diamond.
Extending slightly beyond the petal with the ruby, is a little stalk, also set with diamonds. Diamonds are set in silver, laid over gold, as was the practice during the Victorian period. There are 45 of these diamonds plus the larger stone. Encircling the lobe with the sapphire is a large gold ring, which adds interest to the design.
If we look carefully at the back of the brooch, we can see signs that the brooch was once more versatile and could be attached to a hair clip or tiara. Those fittings have not survived. What is still present, is a small loop behind the petal with the pearl. This can accommodate a thin chain.
The hinged gold pin with a c-clasp.
Wear the brooch either way up. This works especially well for both a right and left-handed person. Top quality workmanship and design (see the Story below). Luxuriate in a really good piece of jewelry.
Marks and Metal:
A mark near the end of the pin is totally worn and illegible. Metal was electronically tested. Most of the brooch tests as just under 18k, pin tests as 15k as is common for additional strength.
Condition:
Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
THE STORY:
Jewels with 3-petalled flowers, each set with a different stone are deeply symbolic. While the symbolism might vary according to the original owner, it is often associated with the past, present and future; love friendship and fidelity; mind, body and soul and even the Trinity for religious Christians. Over and above every wonderful meaning that can spark conversation and compliments, is the intrinsic beauty of this great historic jewel.
Wear it either way up, it is suitable for a man or a woman. Perhaps intentional and perhaps a coincidence, but the colors red, white and blue make this brooch especially meaningful for the patriotically inclined. Put a sparkling edge to any outfit.
Independent gemological appraisal with 2025 value of $15000.00 available to new owner.
