This Victorian-era brooch contains three Old Mine cut diamonds, surrounded by 24 smaller rose and single cut diamonds. The front of the brooch is made of silver; its tarnished patina creates a gorgeous chiaroscuro effect, highlighting the sparkling diamonds. The brooch features an openwork of floral and foliated patterns, while millegrain work and the bead setting adds a lovely visual texture. The back is made of 14k gold and has a trombone clasp.
This piece can be worn as a brooch or as a pendant. If a chain is looped through it when the pin is closed, it hangs beautifully as a necklace.
The center diamond is 4.5x4.25mm, and it is flanked by two 4.2mm diamonds. The single and rose cut diamonds on the framework are approximately 2mm each. The total diamond weight is approximately 1.5 carat. The diamonds range in color from I to M The center diamond has a warm cast and a surface reaching inclusion near the table. The patina of the silver visually hides this and it is only after close inspection that it is noticeable. The clarity of the diamonds range from VS-II to Included.
The piece weighs 6.2 grams. It is 1 3/8” by 3/4”.
Circa 1880
