Lilac Wreath - Victorian 14K Gold Amethyst & Natural Pearl Brooch (VICBR020)

Lilac Wreath - Victorian 14K Gold Amethyst & Natural Pearl Brooch. This exquisite brooch is crafted from 14K gold, tested, and confirmed with a professional appraisal.  This brooch features 8 natural round cut amethysts, 8 natural English freshwater river pearls, Victorian era styling, and high quality craftsmanship. The gallery on this brooch is expertly set with alternating vibrant purple amethysts, and lustrous white pearls, displaying silvery/white overtones. The brooch has a pin and lock mechanism, in perfect working order.  This Victorian era brooch exudes class and femininity... truly a lovely piece for any fine antique jewelry collection.

Note: Appraisal included with the brooch. Contemporary appraisals do not reflect the antique value.

History: Ancient Greeks and Romans believed this gemstone could ward off the intoxicating powers of Bacchus and keep the wearer clear-headed and quick-witted. English regalia were decorated with amethysts during the Middle Ages to symbolize royalty. Amethyst jewelry has been found and dated as early as 2000 BC.

Pearls were presented as gifts to Chinese royalty as early as 2300 BC, while in ancient Rome, pearl jewellery was considered the ultimate status symbol. So precious were the spherical gems that in the 1st century BC, Julius Caesar passed a law limiting the wearing of pearls only to the ruling classes.

Brooches have evolved considerably from their beginnings in the ancient world. Brooches were used in a functional capacity to fasten or secure articles of clothing. The earliest of brooches consisted of thorns, flint, and sticks. During the Bronze Age the pins were then handcrafted out of metal.

Measurements: Brooch 27.50 mm x 27.50 mm 

Stone Size: Amethyst 2.00 carats   Pearl(Natural) 2.80 mm 

Weight: 3.11 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: England 

Date: Circa 1890