Description

An antique Victorian double heart opal & diamond brooch.

This brooch is a particularly fine example, set with beautiful opals and old-cut diamonds – combining romantic symbolism with exceptional late Victorian craftsmanship.

Dating from circa 1880, it is finely crafted in 15k yellow gold with a silver-topped front, a technique commonly used during at the time to enhance the brilliance of the diamonds. What sets this example apart is the quality of its opals, the refinement of its workmanship, and the thoughtful construction throughout the piece.

The two heart-shaped opals are beautifully paired and display a lively play-of-colour, with attractive flashes of green, red and blue. Each opal is framed by old-cut diamonds, set below a diamond bow which adds elegance and movement to the design. The reverse reveals the quality of the workmanship, with finely executed fittings and a beautifully engineered detachable brooch mechanism.

Interestingly, the piece retains a concealed retractable eyelet incorporated into the original design, while both the brooch bar and clasp can be removed from the reverse of the piece. Although no pendant fitting accompanies the brooch, these features suggest that it was created as a convertible piece of jewellery – a feature of many finer quality Victorian pieces. If desired, this piece could be sympathetically adapted to be worn as a pendant through the addition of an appropriate bail.

Period: Late Victorian, circa 1880–1900
Metal: 15ct yellow gold, silver-topped
Dimensions: 25.5mm (width) × 23.5mm (height)
Opals: Two heart-shaped cabochon opals, approximately 8.6mm × 7.5mm × 2.5mm, estimated at approximately 0.75 carats each
Diamonds: Old-cut diamonds throughout, approximately 1.0 carat total weight
Fitting: Brooch fitting with concealed retractable eyelet
Condition: Excellent antique condition. All stones are secure, with light wear consistent with age.

These brooches are also known as sweetheart and bow-tie brooches – one of the most sentimental and enduring motifs of Victorian jewellery. A truly outstanding piece!

Price: 8,500 EURO

SKU: 5025