Beautiful garnet brooch, circa 1880. Our jeweler has identified the stones as rhodolite garnets, which are more purple in color than other garnets. The setting tests as 12K gold plated. The gold has a coppery or "rose-gold" color, which sets off the deep garnet color.

The brooch is about 2 1/8" long and 1 1/8" at the widest point. There is evidence of an old professional repair, as you can see small solder marks on the reverse. The clasp has a tube hinge and a variation of the C-clasp. The central stone measures 9mm x 7mm. There is wear to the gold plating, especially on the reverse.

According to the former owner, this brooch is originally from Germany.