Antique Silver, Gold, Ruby & Diamond Butterfly Brooch

As the Industrial Revolution progressed, increasing numbers of people moved to towns and cities for work, so much so that the countryside became a place of nostalgia that was often romanticized. The Suez Canal was built between 1859 and 1869, which lead to a fascination with Egypt. The Victorians began mimicking the styles of jewelry found in ancient tombs, with insects being a favorite. Women adorned themselves with insect jewelry, wearing them on shawls, jackets, hats and even decorating their parasols with multiple little glittering creatures!

This fabulous butterfly brooch would love to flutter into your collection! Made of silver with gold over silver on the back, she is adorned with approximately 1 carat of gleaming rose cut diamonds and rich pinkish-red cabochon rubies set into the wings, with a central faceted stone serving as the head. The rubies total approximately 4 carats. Two cabochon cut sapphires serve as the eyes, giving a cheerful expression to the face of the creature! Such a versatile piece, it can go from day to night with ease, and can be worn alone or whimsically grouped with other pins, just as the trend loving Victorians did!

Details (approximate)

Dimensions: 1.8" x 2.52"

Weight: 22.1 grams

Materials: Silver, gold, ruby, diamond, sapphire

Metal: Silver, gold over silver

Marks: None

Condition: Excellent antique condition

TBP 11/2/21