Here is a very beautiful antique brooch that has so many wonderful features, and is sure to not only be constantly admired, but also an amazing talking point.
Dating from the late Victorian era of the 1890's in 18 carat yellow gold, to begin with this brooch is designed as a witches heart. Going as far back as the 15th Century, a witches heart is one where the tail or bottom part of the heart bends to one side. This was a design that was used to ward off evil spirits, however in the romantic Victorian period of the 1800's, this came to be seen as a betrothal or marriage piece of jewellery, making this such a romantic piece of jewellery.
Surrounded by a border of natural seed pearls, there is also one in the centre of that incredible blue enamel. However making this even more special is the style of enamelling that was used. This is a style of enamelling called "guilloché enamel". Guilloché is a beautiful technique in which a very precise and repetitive pattern is engraved into the underlying material, then the enamel is applied over the top. After the firing process is completed, it is polished back to a high lustre revealing the engraved pattern below the surface, all of which can be seen here in this magnificent piece here.
And finally to make this brooch even more special and personal to the wearer, on the reverse side is a locket compartment to place a photo of someone or a family group shot inside. By placing a photo inside, this truly will become so much more special and personal to the wearer.
Measuring 22.2mm across by 16.3mm, this is such an elegant and exciting piece of antique jewellery that is sure to become a much loved and treasured family heirloom.
Stock# C2221
Circa: 1890
$Sold
Out of stock
Antique witches heart brooch and locket.
Antique witches heart brooch and locket made in the Victorian era of the 1890's. This antique brooch has a locket compartment on the back and was made in 18 carat yellow gold.
A brief history on guilloché enamel:
Going back to the 18th Century, guilloché is a decorative technique in which a very precise and repetitive pattern is engraved into an underlying material. This was often done on gold or silver and then the enamel applied over the top. After the firing process is completed, it is polished back to a high lustre. This reveals the engraved pattern below the surface. This technique can be seen on jewellery as well as decorative pieces such as pill boxes, opera glasses and carriage clocks. Often seen in high quality French and Swiss pieces over the century, this is an enamelling technique that has always remained so popular and sought after.
A witches heart is one where the tail or bottom part of the heart bends to one side. This goes as far back as the 15th Century and was used to ward off evil spirits. However in the romantic Victorian period of the 1800's, this came to be seen as a betrothal or marriage piece of jewellery.
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https://www.kalmarantiques.com.au/product-category/antique/antique-brooch-antique/
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