Recently Sold (VBR189)

Victorian Revival - Vintage 14K Gold Australian Opal & Seed Pearl Brooch/Velvet Choker Necklace. This lovely brooch is crafted from 14K gold, hallmarked and confirmed 14K. Featuring 4 natural opal cabochon gemstones, thirty four genuine pearls, and Victorian styling. This gallery on this brooch is adorned by opals, displaying a variation of blue/purple and fire orange flashes of color. The brooch is also enhanced by beautiful white seed pearls, adding delicacy and femininity to the piece. The pin on the back of the brooch is securely in place with its safety catch and lock mechanism. The brooch has been attached to a vintage velvet adjustable choker, which can be worn at your desired length.  This vintage brooch is full of versatility, it can be worn on the choker or removed to be worn on your favorite clothing. Truly a treasure to be enjoyed for many years to come.

Note: Contemporary appraisals not reflect the antique value of antique pieces.  It is recommended that this brooch be insured for $1350.00 (Tax Excluded)  

History: The ancient Greeks believed opals gave their owners the gift of prophecy and guarded them from disease. Europeans have long considered the gem a symbol of hope, purity, and truth. Opal is considered an October birthstone.  Opal are so desirable and loved for their flash of colour and beauty that they are worn by many who do not have an opal as their birthstone. 

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.

Gold was generally used for a couple thousand years solely to create things such as jewelry and idols for worship. This was until around 1500 BC when the ancient empire of Egypt, which benefited greatly from its gold-bearing region, Nubia, made gold the first official medium of exchange for international trade.

400-1100 B.C. The beginnings of the brooch can be traced back to the Bronze Age, where early iterations took form in simple pins with circular rings. The unassuming ornaments were often used to secure and fasten cloaks and other garments during the winter.

Measurements: Face of the brooch 28.00 mm x 26.00 mm 

Stone Size:Opal .43 carats      Seed Pearl: 1.00 mm -3.00 mm 

Weight: 3.60 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: America 

Date: Brooch: Circa 1940   Choker: Circa 1960