EXTREMELY RARE — Antique Javanese “Jargoon Flower” Brooch (Late Victorian Era).
Ethnic. Symbolic. Historic craftsmanship.
This extraordinary round brooch is crafted in 800-grade silver and represents traditional Javanese / Indonesian silversmithing, dating to the late Victorian period (late 1800s) — a time when Southeast Asian jewellery was deeply symbolic, ceremonial, and rich in artisanal skill.
The front features an ornate pierced grill-style panel, formed in flowing vines and stylised leaves — a design language rooted in nature symbolism, fertility motifs, and protective ornamentation common in Javanese adornment.
Each leaf is set with old rose-cut “Jargoon” stones — the historical trade name for white zircon, a gemstone widely used before modern diamond cutting became common in the region. These softly faceted stones glow rather than sparkle, giving the piece that dreamy antique shimmer.
At the centre sits a deep red garnet, traditionally associated with vitality & life force.
The contrast of the garnet centre with the pale zircons creates a beautiful “flower” composition — hence the collector term “Jargoon Flower” brooch.
Beneath the pierced silver grill sits a layer of black cotton — a fascinating and culturally relevant feature. In many traditional pieces, this textile backing was used to:
• Enhance contrast behind the gemstones.
• Stabilise the openwork.
• And in some cases, hold perfumed oil or scented substances, allowing the wearer to carry fragrance — a subtle luxury and ritual practice.
Javanese silver jewellery of this quality was often worn as:
• Status symbols.
• Bridal or ceremonial adornment.
• Protective talismanic pieces.
Pieces like this are exceptionally scarce today, especially with original construction details intact.
A similar Javanese Jargoon ring is currently for sale online at $299 ( R4700 ) See last picture.
Measurements : The brooch measures 4.3cm in diameter.The rose cut zircons each measure approx 2.50mm in diameter.The brooch with a weight of 21 grams.
