A beautifully detailed and generously sized antique Victorian sterling silver brooch dating to circa 1880, from the Aesthetic era.
Oval in form, the brooch is beautifully hand-engraved with a graceful swallow sweeping through a grassy meadow, with delicate engraved grasses and a small star-like flower adding to the pastoral scene. The scenic panel is framed by fine milgrain beading and surrounded by a distinctive cut-out border with a turret or pie-crust edge, further embellished with tiny silver beads.
The swallow has long been a cherished motif in antique jewellery, traditionally associated with love, fidelity, loyalty and the promise of return. As a result, swallow jewellery has a particularly romantic symbolism and makes a wonderful choice as a wedding or anniversary gift, or simply as a meaningful piece to wear and treasure.
Solidly constructed, the brooch is finished with a sturdy traditional pin back and C-clasp, fastening securely and functioning perfectly. Its generous proportions and relatively unisex design make it equally appealing worn by a woman or a man.
A charming Victorian love token with beautiful hand-engraved detail and an appealing Aesthetic-period design — a particularly lovely piece for a wedding, anniversary or romantic gift.
DETAILS ~
METAL: Sterling silver
SIZE: 4.2 cm (1-5/8 inch) wide × 3.5cm (1-3/8) high
HALLMARKS: Not marked for metal content; professionally tested as sterling silver
WEIGHT: 7.8 grams
DATE: Victorian, circa 1880
CONDITION: In very good antique condition with light surface wear commensurate with age. The engraving remains beautifully crisp. Any dark areas visible in the photographs are reflections rather than marks or tarnishing.
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At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring they are ready to wear and enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free Worldwide Shipping
We are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases. For our US and EU customers, all applicable tariffs and import charges are included in the purchase price, so no additional duties or fees will be payable on delivery.
* Returns Policy
If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may return your item for a refund. Please contact us within 3 days of receiving your order and return the item within 7 days.
* Gemstone Testing & Measurements
All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.
* Photography & Scale
Our photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show every fine detail. As a result, minor imperfections may appear more pronounced in images than they do to the naked eye. Close-up photography can also make pieces appear larger on screen, so we recommend referring carefully to the written description for precise dimensions.
* Gifting
Purchasing as a gift? Your jewellery will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note that unless otherwise stated, any antique boxes shown in photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.
