Tiny brooches like these are known as lace pins or modesty pins and were used to pin a scarf or stole to cover a lady's modesty. The center is set with a mix of nine antique table-cut and cushion-cut diamonds, with a combined estimated weight of 0.75 ct. They have a nice and bright colour (H-I colour) and some of the diamonds have small inclusions (SI to pique quality). All diamonds are set in open settings, allowing light to pass through the stones.
The brooch is fitted with a c-clasp and a pin that is longer than the brooch itself. This is very typical for brooches of this period and was done so that the end of the pin can be stuck inside the fabric, preventing it from falling off.
Halley's Comet is a periodic comet that returns to Earth's vicinity approximately every 75 years, making it the only short-period comet consistently visible to the naked eye. It was last seen in 1986 and is expected to next appear in mid-2061. The comet is named after English astronomer Edmond Halley (1656-1742), who predicted its return after observing that comets in 1531, 1607, and 1682 were the same object. In 1835, when the comet was visible, a lot of jewels were created to commemorate this special moment.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 22 x 10 mm: the pin is 35 mm long.
Weight: 1.60 grams.
Age: 19th Century, also known as the Victorian era, circa 1830s.
Material: Hallmarked for 18k gold and 800/1000 silver.
Condition: In great antique condition with minor wear, consistent with age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes. This shop is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties.