Antique 1880s Aesthetic Victorian Orange Branch Coral and Gold Fill Knot Etched Brooch

Description

Crafted in the 1890s, this lovely knotted gold fill metal, and branch coral brooch is very elegant. The etched metal has a beautiful Victorian motif and pops against the reddish-orange coral. The gold-filled metal twists around the raw, branch coral, which adds a lovely sense of movement.

Coral is one of the few organic gemstones and, along with amber, was used as a form of currency with Paleolithic man. It has been cherished throughout the ages by ancient Egyptians, ancient Romans, and Victorians. Coral is thought to bring protection and was a popular gift for babies during the Aesthetic Victorian era from their godparents.

The brooch is in very good antique condition with minimal signs of wear. The two pieces of coral are natural and untreated, which makes them rarer. The gold fill metal shows light signs of wear but nothing noticeable or distracting. The c-clasp shows signs of dark tarnish, but it’s on the underside of the piece. The pin-stem is slightly kinked, but I tried to straighten it. The tube hinge is fully functional, and the brooch secures firmly to the cloth. The gold fill on the pin-stem has worn so you can see the silver popping through, but again you cannot see this while wearing the piece.

The brooch measures 1-1/2″ wide and 3/4″ tall; and weighs 5.27 grams.

I try to show in my photographs an accurate picture of the item, and in the written description. Please take note of the size given in the description, as images can often look more significant than the actual object.

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