SALE Carved Ivory Love Doves Memento Swivel Brooch Locket w/ Original Glass

Jewelry : Antique : Victorian : Carved Cameo : Genuine Ivory : Birds : Doves : Memento Brooch

 

Together forever...Victorian Love Doves in a rolled gold swivel setting, just waiting for a loved one's photograph.

This lovely Victorian brooch hails from England and is a fine example of hand carved elephant ivory, so perfectly sealed and preserved for over 100 years under glass with a glass memento locket on the reverse. The setting features the soft swirling scrolls of the Art Nouveau era, with engraved pansies at each corner. Set into a swivel base, the locket turns 360 degrees to display either the ivory doves or photograph or memento of a loved one when worn. Absolutely gorgeous!

The entire brooch including the swivel surround base measures 56mm (2 3/16") tall by 48mm (1 7/8") wide. The thick double compartment bezel measures 39mm ( 1 1/2") tall by 30mm (1 3/16") wide by 11mm, or just under 1/2", thick. Each oval glass compartment has its original seal, never having been opened. The total weight is 22.3 grams.

The two doves symbolize the pure devotion and domesticity of marriage. The carving is quite delicate and I love the smoothly carved raised edge surround. The genuine ivory's original creamy color has been preserved in its air tight compartment and is without any yellowing or age related cracks. There is a midnight blue base that is exposed behind the carving. The reverse compartment also retains its original air tight seal and its patterned pressed paper matte is also perfectly preserved. The pattern resembles that of the woven hair designs of the Georgian and Victorian Period, which was a "cottage industry" art form itself.

The brooch closes securely with a simple c-clasp and there is a safety chain attached to one of the side scrolls.

All is in amazing condition--the ivory, both glasses and the swivel mechanism actually works smoothly and is without issues. Antique swivel brooches are amazing little feats of engineering and still mesmerize me! Wouldn't this make a splendid wedding or anniversary gift?

There is one piece of scroll missing from the top right of the outer surround that is not noticeable when worn as there is just so much going on in this Victorian treasure. To wear as a necklace, a chain slides easily between the top scroll and the bezel, or a simple wire bail can be added at the top if you prefer. Just email for information.

This love token will be delivered in a lovely presentation box, perfect for gift giving and storage.

The international importation/exportation of genuine ivory has been banned for many years in order to protect these fine animals from abuse and certain death, in the efforts to harvest this mesmerizing "white gold". Available for domestic shipment only.

Item ID: C-1578

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Their bonding love shared in time, is always meant to be,