Victorian Scottish Agate Lover's Knot Brooch

For centuries this design--a lover's knot was commonly regarded as a symbol of the connection between two lovers. It was a sailors' knot to show separation from one's beloved. It was believed, in Victorian times, to show if a couple's love would last, a pair of twigs from a tree were formed into this knot and if it held for a year, their love would stay true forever.

This desirable example was formed from a sterling silver tubular frame inset with several agate examples including jasper, grey banded agate, moss agate and speckled blood-stone. Markings on some of the agates are natural and not flaws.

The brooch is 2 2/5 in length and weighs 27.6 grams. There is an original loop on the reverse which most likely held a safety chain. The pin and clasp are in perfect working order. There is a small dent on the silver which does not affect the quality of the piece. It is not visible when worn since it is on the reverse of the brooch.

A lover's knot is one of jewelry collectors' favorite designs. This is a superb example.