This is a scarce early Victorian sterling silver and black dot paste shoe buckle, which has been repurposed as a brooch.

This is a scarce early Victorian sterling silver and black dot paste shoe buckle, which has been repurposed as a brooch.

The brooch is rectangular with gentle curves at the top and bottom edges, lending a slight waist-like shape, which was common in buckle designs from the Georgian and early Victorian eras.

The frame is set with black dot paste stones—these are hand-cut glass "gems" with a black dot painted at the base of each stone to simulate the culet of old mine-cut diamonds. The stones are all individually collet-set, typical of 19th-century craftsmanship.

It has been converted from its original use as a shoe buckle to a brooch, which was a popular way to repurpose antique jewelry, especially during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Early Victorian Period (circa 1837–1850s):
During this era, shoe buckles were both a practical and decorative fashion accessory. Although they declined in popularity by the mid-19th century for everyday wear, buckles like this were worn for formal occasions.

Black dot paste was widely used in Georgian and early Victorian jewelry. These stones were highly prized for their ability to sparkle under candlelight, mimicking the brilliance of diamonds.

Note : one of the paste stones has been replaced over its lifetime, which adds to its character and story.Priced accordingly , though.

Measurements :The brooch measures 4.8cm x 2.6cm.The brooch with a weight of 7.5grams.