The holidays are fast approaching and we have been busy decorating the gallery for the coming festivities. As so often happens, some of the prettiest ornaments are not on our tree or hanging in the windows. They are sparkling in the antique jewelry showcase.
When custom creating jewels for clients I often look to jewels from the past for inspiration. Jewelry from earlier times was often beautifully crafted and can be found in an incredible variety of styles. Here are a few of my favorite brooches and pins from the late Victorian, Art Nouveau and Art Deco eras. These and other fine antique jewels can be found in the Antique and Estate Jewelry Gallery.
The Victorians' fascination with exotic mythological creatures was only limited by their imagination. A fierce lion-headed serpent with a tail of flame-like acanthus leaves warily guards this brooch with a jealous green eye. A glowing pearl is set in the center. Created by Carter, Howe in 14kt gold, circa 1890.
An exquisite, petite brooch of a woman serenely dreaming amid lucky clovers. The woman's profile and the four-leaf clovers are beautifully enameled in soft pastel shades. The clovers are set with sparkling dew drop-like diamonds. Created by Krementz & Company in 14kt gold, circa 1900.
A beautiful Art Nouveau brooch of intertwined ginkgo leaves surrounding a soft pastel Amethyst. The intricate, flowing design is accented with two small pearls. Created by Whiteside & Blank in 14kt gold, circa 1900.
A striking Krementz Art Nouveau brooch with pastel enamel leaves and pearl clusters surrounding a regal amethyst. A small diamond sparkles at the top of the brooch. Created by Krementz & Company in 14kt gold, circa 1900.
A dramatic Art Deco brooch set with a beautiful honey-colored Citrine. The gold sides of the brooch rise up pyramid-like to support the gemstone. They are decorated with a boldly geometric Greek key design. Crafted in 14kt gold, circa 1930.
Beautifully detailed grape leaves and a cluster of fresh water pearls cascade across the oval frame of this Victorian brooch. In Victorian times grapes and grape leaves were a symbol of Christ, but also carried overtones of Bacchus and riotous revelry. Created by Ostby & Barton in 10kt gold, circa 1890.
A beautiful Art Nouveau brooch of a four-leaf clover set with a small diamond. The leaves are richly detailed with fine veins and characteristic crescent moons. A wonderful example of flowing, almost surreal Art Nouveau design. Created by Whiteside & Blank in 14kt gold, circa 1900.
These brooches and other fine antique jewels can be found
in the Antique and Estate Jewelry Gallery.
in the Antique and Estate Jewelry Gallery.
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