French Victorian Rose Gold & Diamond Brooch/Pendant, c.1850s.
Prepare to be enchanted by one of the most beautiful jewels of the Victorian age – an authentic French mid-19th century brooch/pendant of generous proportions and exquisite craftsmanship.
This rare jewel is crafted in solid 18ct rose gold, luxuriously topped with sterling silver in the traditional French style of the 1800s. The oval centrepiece radiates with ornate repoussé and openwork detailing, set with a glittering constellation of old rose and mine-cut diamonds in varying sizes – each diamond hand-cut in the 19th century, capturing the romantic irregular sparkle unique to antique diamonds. Surrounding the central cartouche is a luminous border of graduated marine cultured pearls, their creamy lustre framing the brilliance of the diamonds in perfect harmony.
A flourish of silver-set foliate motifs crowns and anchors the jewel, each accented with further rose-cut diamonds and pearls, and a detachable naturalistic pearl drop suspends elegantly from the base (note: this drop is a later replacement for the missing original). The verso reveals refined workmanship with a double fitting – a retractable hinged bale allowing it to be worn as a pendant, and a discreet pin fitting enabling it to transform into a brooch, a hallmark of French versatility and ingenuity in jewel design.
Dating to the Victorian era, circa 1850s, this jewel embodies the romance, grandeur, and technical mastery of its time. French hallmarks confirm its authenticity and gold purity. Mid-19th century French jewels of this calibre were often worn for soirées, court occasions, or as sentimental heirlooms, treasured across generations.
Pieces of this stature are exceedingly rare to find intact. A highly similar French brooch/pendant of comparable design and scale is currently listed online for $12,950 AUD (approx. R148,900) – underscoring the rarity and value of this jewel.
chain not included
Measurements : The pendant/brooch with a drop of 6.8cm excluding the bail x 3.1cm.wide.The two largest diamonds in this treasure measures 4.30mm and 4.10mm in diameter.Total weight of 23grams
