This open-worked bar brooch is centered by a large, natural baroque pearl with a diameter of 6 mm. Each side is set with a row of natural seed pearls. The design is completed by six small round-cut demantoid garnets.
Although garnets have been known since ancient times, the demantoid variety was not discovered until 1868 in the Ural Mountains of Russia. The bright green colour and bright brilliance stunned its finders and reminded them of diamonds. which caused them to refer to this garnet variety as demantoid from the french 'demant', meaning diamond. It immediately became a popular gemstone, used by famed jewelers like Faberg
é, until the Russian revolution of 1918 caused the supply of the gemstone to dwindle fast.
This brooch will be sold in the antique box I found it in when I sourced it, and which can be seen in the pictures.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Measurements: 55 x 12 mm / 2.16 x 0.50 inch.
Weight: 4.72 grams
Age: Ealry 20th Century, Belle Epoque era, circa 1910s.
Hallmarks: The brooch carries a hallmark for 15k gold: since this was only used in the UK, I am quite certain it is British in origin.
Condition: The brooch is in great antique condition with only minor wear, consistent with its age.
Please note that this shop is based in the EU. Buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import taxes and/or VAT.