-Royal Air Force 1925 Enameled Wings Badge In 18Kt Gold With 1.68 Ctw Diamonds
Antique Platinum & Diamond Royal Air Force Wings Brooch.
A very rare sweetheart Royal Air Force pilot wings badge-brooch, made in England during the reigning period of the king George V, around the 1920 and 1930. This historical wings-badge is finely detailed and has been crafted in 18 karats yellow Gold with platinum top for the setting of the one-hundred-thirty-four diamonds. It is embellished with the RAF monogram within a laurel wreath surmounted by the king's Crown and accented with applications of red and green glass enamels. The brooch is fitted at the reverse with a hinged horizontal pin-bar and a mechanical security lock.
History of The Wings Badge
Pilot’s brevet or Pilot’s Wings was designed by senior officers General Sir Frederick Sykes and General Sir David Henderson and the Wings were given Royal approval by the King George V in February 1913 under Army Order. The Wings then became the symbol of qualification worn by trained pilots and when the Royal Air Force (RAF) was formed in 1918 the design was changed slightly, and the wings shape took the form of an eagle. Today in modern times it continues to be worn by pilots of the RAF, displaying the Kings crown to reflect the reign of King Charles III.
Sweetheart Brooches
Sweetheart brooches like this have been popular since the early 20th century and were given to wives, mothers and girlfriends by servicemen as mementos and reminders of their absent loved one. They were worn to show pride in having a sweetheart who was serving his country.
The Royal Air Force
The history of the Royal Air Force, the air force of the United Kingdom, spans a century of British military aviation. The RAF was founded on 1 April 1918, towards the end of the First World War by merging the Royal Flying Corps and the Royal Naval Air Service. After the war, the RAF was greatly reduced in size and during the inter-war years was used for policing operations in the British Empire. The RAF underwent rapid expansion prior to and during the Second World War. During the war it was responsible for the aerial defense of Great Britain, the strategic bombing campaign against Germany and tactical support to the British Army around the world. During the Cold War, the main role of the RAF was the defense of the continent of Europe against potential attack by the Soviet Union, including holding the British nuclear deterrent for a number of years. After the end of the Cold War, the RAF took part in several large-scale operations, including the Gulf War.
Diamonds: Mounted in flush settings, with 134 European rose cuts diamonds, 1.68 carats, G/H color, VS/SI clarity.
Weight: 8.55 Grams, (5.48 Dwt).
Measurements: Wingspan 60 mm by 20 mm (2.36 x 0.79 Inches).
Hallmarks: Electronically tested for 18 karats gold, (.750/.999 Au.). And topped with .800/.999 Silver.
Collateral: This Royal Air Force badge is accompanied by a presentation jewelry box.
Condition: The overall condition of this badge is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the gold. All parts and the 134 diamonds are secured in their settings. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and the authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: P041224MANM/.2055
