This is a beautiful and interesting antique carved mother of pearl eagle-shaped pin or brooch. It is a curved piece of mother of pearl with intricate etching and sharp lines in the shape of an eagle, with wings spread over head and its gaze facing to the right. Its distinctive iridescent pinkish hue, with rainbow-like sheen catches the light across the face of the pin, and its beauty is only heightened by a very uniquely shaped curled 9k gold filigree. There is a gold braided rope detail across the chest of the eagle, above which is an intricately threaded gold detail that may be the letter S.

This pin is likely a homemade piece of sweetheart jewelry from World War I. Also often called trench art or keepsake art, generally they were pieces made by soldiers fighting overseas and sent home to loved ones, which would explain why the gold wire is twisted into the letter S (sent home to someone with a personalized touch.)

It is in excellent antique condition with wear consistent with its age, but no noticeable flaws. The pin measures 1 3/8 inches wide and 1 1/4 inch long.

MK