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Book Your Virtual ConsultationVictorian 18ct Gold & Shell Brooch with a Rose Diamond Set Snake & Natural Pearl Within
№ 542X
140 Admirers
Rare Find
An extraordinary novelty brooch that was made circa 1880-1900. It is composed of a real sea shell with a snake inside set with rose diamonds and a real natural pearlA pearl-bearing mollusc that has not been tampered with by man to produce a cultivated pearl will produce a 'natural pearl'. and has 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) gold fittings.
It appears to be ‘Snake PearlNatural pearls are an organic gem formed inside live mollusc shells and come in all shapes and sizes. They are formed as the result of a natural irritant within the mollusc's mantle and as a defence, layers of iridescent nacre form over the top of it, creating a pearl. .’ In essence, it’s a play on words on each of the elements, the snake and pearl. The shell element is rarer to find on a snake pearl.
A snake pearl, is also known as a nagamani, cobra pearl, or snake stone. In real life, it’s a stone or animal bone that is used in folk medicine. Some believe that possessing a genuine and real snake pearl can bring good fortune, devotion, godliness, and fame.
The scallop shell could denote the pearls origin or a Christian symbol of pilgrimage throughout life. Spiritually, seashells are believed to carry calming, healing energies. Some people believe a shell’s hard texture makes one’s mind stronger. That is why seashells stand for a resilient and determined mindset. It also represents protection against evil spirits. Similarly, others believe shells are a bridge between the physical and the supernatural realm.
So it may be a christening shell brooch for a girl, owing to the pink shell. White backed shells are usually for boys. Packages with a Christening shell are still available to buy today, typically for the Catholic faith.
The very small gold circle seen on the back and front of the brooch may be a hair locket for the baby’s first hair.
I would conclude that the brooch is a best wishes message for the baby’s future, possibly from a Catholic family.
A rare Novelty brooch
Guaranteed Christmas DeliveryTuesday 17th December
Item Number
№
542X
Measurements
3cm by 3.5cm
Rose diamonds approx total weight 0.30 carats.
Rose diamonds approx total weight 0.30 carats.
Date & Origin
Victorian (1839-1901)
English
English
Provenance
English
Hallmarks
Unmarked. 18ct gold & silver
Condition
Very Good
Care Tips
- Take extra care with soft or brittle gemstones
- Check delicate settings regularly
- Take special care of historical jewellery
Discovered
4 months ago
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Guaranteed Christmas Delivery
Tuesday 17th December
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- Customs, taxes and duty DO apply
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Customers from the USA will pay for return postage and any customs, taxes and duties applied.
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"I live in the United States, and working with AJC was easier than going into a store here! They were easily accessible and we even did a video Skype session for additional looks. They had the ring sized and out and shipped to the USA by the next day. Simply an amazing customer experience!"
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