Victorian 1880 Convertible Pendant Brooch In 18Kt Gold With 58.56 Cts Blue Aquamarine
Convertible pendant-brooch with aquamarine.
An oversized statement piece, created in England in the last three quarter of the 19th century, circa 1880's. This beautiful aesthetic sleek convertible pendant-brooch has been crafted during the Victorian era (1837-1901) with a hint of Etruscan revival patterns in rich yellow gold of 18 karats. All the surfaces are treated with a delicate and very thin brushed finish and retain all the beautiful patina.
It is fitted at the reverse with a hinged horizontal pin bar to wear as a brooch (both directions) and a retractable and movable bale to wear with a chain or a necklace.
It should be noted that what is very interesting about this antique piece is that although it was manufactured in the 1880's, it still retains a modernist and contemporary aesthetic, which is a very unusual characteristic for this period.
Gemstone: Mount in the center in a bezel setting with one cushion brilliant cut (31.2 x 22.5 x 12.3 mm) of a natural Brazilian aquamarine of 58.56 carats. The aquamarine is gemstone quality, translucent and with an original blue color with a hint of green denoting was't heated.
Others: Mount at the cardinal points into bezels with 4 round white pearls of 3.5 mm.
Weight: 36,7 Grams, (23.53 Dwt).
Measurements: 62 mm by 62 mm (2.44 x 2.44 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with the gold assay mark 18kt. and old inventory numbers 256 D/EUI.
The Victorian, era is one of the most influenced and influential periods of antique jewelry. This period is defined by the British monarch, in this case, Alexandrina Victoria, the Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, as well as the Empress of India, years 1837-1901. There are 3 sub-periods within this era. First, the early, Romantic period, which is soaked in traditions, natural motifs in gold and silver, clear stones only being worn during the day and colored gems by night.
The second being the Grand or mourning period, which coincides with the death of Queen Victoria's husband, Prince Albert the consort, who died in December of 1861. This period included large, dark, somber, dramatic jewelry, with a lot of black onyx, jet wood, amethyst, garnet and gold. This lasted until 1880's, when the aesthetic period of jewelry began.
The Late or third stage of the Victorian period, use more complex and feminine motifs, returning to the natural, including many floral and celestial designs, with more decadent gemstones, lasting until the turn of the century. The Victorian era of jewelry includes many movements found in other countries, including revivals such as the Etruscan the Roman and the Egyptian as well as the Art Nouveau, Liberty style and Arts and Crafts design movements which lead into the beginning of the twentieth century.
Collateral: It is accompanied by a presentation jewelry box.
Condition: The overall condition of this piece is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the gold. The aquamarine is secured in the setting. An unnoticeable non important small repair has been done in the lock. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: P0000RTEM/.8822
