Antique Victorian Rose Cut Diamond & Natural Pearl Lizard Brooch

Antique Victorian Rose Cut Diamond-Set and Pearl Lizard Silver and 18ct Gold Bar Brooch.

Highly collectible and sought after, antique animal jewellery always seem to find new homes quickly.

A fabulous piece of antique jewellery. This handmade Victorian jewel resembles a lizard in motion, it is  pave-set with rose-cut diamonds (15 in total) additionally, there is a natural pearl at the end of the bar.  

Manufactured in silver and 18ct gold, the lizard is crafted in sterling silver whilst the bar brooch is manufactured in 18ct gold; this was the normal practice at this period as it predates the use of platinum and white gold settings.
This piece was made at the beginning of the 20th century and captures the elegant, nature-inspired style of the period. 

An amusing meaning is assigned to lizards “surviving love” as they were once thought to be fireproof!
The popularity of animal jewellery and other jewellery featuring natural motifs can be linked to the late Victorians turning away from machine industrialization and once again embracing the beauty of nature.

These handmade miniature works of art need to be studied, and you need to know the manufacturing process to fully appreciate their character. A modern one would be cast in one piece, having little `definition` left after the casting process.

Diamonds vary in size, largest measures 2.5mm in diameter and the smallest measures 0.9mm in diameter. 
Pearl measures 3.5mm in diameter.

Lizard measures 24.5mm x 12.1mm.
Good size, overall dimensions are 57.8mm x 12.1mm and 5.6mm in depth.

Weighs 5.3g.

Unmarked, tests 18ct Gold and Silver.

Dates from the late Victorian period to the early Edwardian period, circa 1900. 

A beautiful piece of antique jewellery will look stunning against a blouse, tie, or cravat.

Will quickly become a family heirloom and 'go to' piece, this stunning brooch now on the market after being in private hands for decades, and looking for a new `forever home`

CONDITION: Overall very good, with some very light wear commensurate with age.

This is an antique item making it excellent value for your money when compared to a new equivalent. 
The settings are in good condition and can be worn every day (with respect!). 

LAYAWAY: We happily offer layaway/deposits on the majority of our items. Please send us a message if you would like to arrange a layaway.