This is a gorgeous 14k gold, turquoise, and diamond brooch, made in the Etruscan Revival style of the 1870's. It has a three dimensional dome at its center, which is covered in Persian turquoise cabochons of different sizes and shades, and accented at the very top with a single rose cut diamond. The dome is set in a 14k gold circle, accented with classic Etruscan Revival wire work. This piece is incredible for its craft and precision.
Traditionally, Victorian brooches had a dual purpose and were used as lockets to carry around a memento of a loved one. The brooch doubles as a locket: the back features a glass panel, which can be removed to encase a photograph or a lock of hair, and also contains a loop that can be used as a bail.
The Etruscan Revival period was an era of jewelry making that dates to the 1860-80’s. In the early 1800’s there was a large excavation of Etruscan tombs outside of Rome. Within these tombs were pieces of original Etruscan jewelry. The Etruscans were master artisans, and they created breathtaking pieces of jewelry through their use of gold wire and beading. As the news of the excavation of these tombs and the treasures contained inside them spread throughout Europe, Etruscan Revival jewelry quickly rose to popularity in the Victorian Era and jewelers created their own versions of these ancient pieces.
This piece is in very good condition with some minor loss to gold wire work. The circular brooch measures 32 mm in diameter and weighs 9.6 grams. It has been tested and proves to be 14 karat gold.
