Large Sterling Silver Marcasite Gemini Twins Carved Shell Cameo Brooch

Jewelry : Vintage : Carved, Cameo : Vintage : Sterling Silver : Marcasite : Brooch

 

A beautiful large vintage Sterling Silver Brooch set with an unusual carved Shell Cameo depicting two ladies who look like twins. Looking closely, as there is no distinction shown in the bodies beneath the necks, it actually appears to be a 2 headed lady.

The Brooch measures 1 5/8 inches across and 2 inches down. It fastens with a roll-over safety clasp and also has a silver safety chain which is attached to a loop at the back of the brooch. The beautifully shaped frame is set with large Marcasites. It is not marked as Sterling Silver, but has been tested, and there are small punched marks on the edge which are probably hallmarks, but they are too tiny for me to decipher, so this is probably of European origin. I would think from the style that it dates to the 1920's - possibly a little later.

This is a stunning Brooch in excellent undamaged condition - my pictures unfortunately don't show just how beautiful it is in reality. The gorgeous natural outward curve of the shell is mirrored in the frame, each complimenting the other. The silver has a lovely patina which sets the marcasites off beautifully. This was definitely not a mass produced piece. Wearing this will be like wearing a piece of fine art - it really will not matter what you wear it with, the only thing people will notice will be the Brooch!

Item ID: RL540