Exceptional Early Victorian Romantic Period brooch, circa 1840–1860, featuring a beautifully carved natural amethyst cameo surrounded by pearls and an ornate yellow-gold frame.
The centerpiece is a substantial oval natural amethyst, tested, deeply carved in high relief with the portrait of an elegant classical female figure. The sculptural carving is particularly striking, with considerable depth and fine detail to the face, elaborate coiffure and draped clothing.
The amethyst displays beautiful variations of purple color and translucency that enhance the dimensional quality of the carving.
A border of pearls surrounds the cameo, set within an elaborately worked yellow-gold mounting characteristic of fine jewelry from the mid-19th century.
The style and construction are consistent with French Romantic-period jewelry of the mid-19th century. Traces of old hallmarks are visible on the pin assembly, but they are too worn to identify conclusively; therefore, no specific French maker or origin is being represented as confirmed.
Period: Early Victorian / Romantic Period, circa 1840–1860
Style: Classical high-relief cameo
Gemstone: Natural Amethyst – Tested
Decoration: Pearls
Main Mounting: Yellow Gold – Acid Tested Approximately 18K
Jump Rings & Catch: Acid Tested Approximately 14K
Pin: Acid Tested Low 14K
Total Gross Weight: 23.15 grams
Hallmarks: Traces of old marks present but no longer legible
Very good antique condition considering its approximately 165+ years of age.
The amethyst remains securely mounted and the carved portrait retains excellent definition. Fissures/fracture lines are visible within and across portions of the amethyst, as shown in the photographs. These should be considered part of the condition and are reflected in the price.
The pearls show natural variations in shape, color and surface. The gold mounting and pin assembly show normal surface wear and signs of age consistent with an antique jewel.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description.
A beautiful and substantial example of Romantic-period carved hardstone jewelry, combining a dramatic high-relief amethyst portrait, pearl surround and finely worked high-karat gold mounting.
TOTAL GROSS WEIGHT: 23.15 GRAMS