This magnificent, fine and impressive antique brooch has been crafted in 15ct yellow gold with a silver setting.
The brooch has been modelled in the form of a butterfly with wings displayed.
The pierced decorated wings are each embellished with six cushion cut Basaltic sapphires to the outer margins.
The layered forewings and hindwings are further ornamented with a total of two-hundred and fifty-four diamonds, in a combination of mine and Dutch cuts; these wings are secured with en tremblant settings allowing them 'to tremble' independently, indicating the high quality of the piece.
The butterfly's thorax is accented with a stunning claw set cushion cut sapphire, encompassed with twelve diamonds, creating a cluster design.
The abdomen displays seven impressive pavé set cushion cut sapphires, graduating in size and flanked with twenty-two diamonds.
The legs, antennae and head of the insect are embellished with twelve diamonds and encompass two impressive collet set cabochon cut emeralds, representing the eyes.
This magnificent antique butterfly brooch secures to the reverse with a hinged pin and C shaped clasp fastening; this versatile piece could also be worn as a pendant or hair clip.
This large Victorian sapphire and diamond butterfly brooch has been independently tested using state of the art technology (Niton XL2 Analyzer) and verified as 15ct yellow gold and silver.
This magnificent brooch is supplied with an IDGL diamond and gemstone grading report card, in addition to a sapphire report card and certificate supplied by the Gemmological Certification Services, London*.
Such magnificent and large examples set with this combination of very high quality gemstones are rare to the market; this brooch is the finest example of its type you could hope to acquire.
This Victorian brooch is an exceptional gift for landmark occasions such as a 50th birthday or major anniversary, offering collectors a rare and prestigious acquisition-equally suited as an heirloom, investment or statement of refined taste. This is a rare opportunity to obtain such a magnificent and large butterfly brooch.
NOTE: * This documentation accredits the sapphires originating in Basaltic deposits and certifies that the gemstones shows no indications of heating.
"Rather than regarding inclusions in coloured stones as harmful, in small sizes and numbers that do not in any way detract from their beauty, they should be regarded as adding to desirability, for they provide identifying characteristics."
Reference: The Connoisseur's Guide to Precious Gemstones, R. Wise, Brunswick House Press.
Images do not always reflect the true colour and brilliance of gemstones and diamonds. The video however provides a truer representation of the actual colour and showcases each stone in this gemstone brooch. Date: Circa 1890
