This stunning antique brooch has been crafted in 15 ct yellow gold with a silver setting.
The antique brooch has been modelled in the form of a stylised winged insect.
The thorax of the insect is ornamented with an old round cut synthetic* ruby, encircled with eleven diamonds in a combination of Old Dutch and Old round cut.
The large striped abdomen of this stylised winged insect is defined with 15 ct yellow gold decorated borders and embellished further with Old Dutch and Old round cut diamonds, graduating in size depending on location.
The paired, pierced decorated wings are embellished with curvilinear bands incorporating one hundred and eighty-seven diamonds.
The head of this impressive insect brooch is embellished with an Old Dutch cut diamond, accented with two cabochon synthetic ruby representing the eyes.
The insect has two bifurcating stylised antennae ornamented with old Dutch cut and round cut diamonds to the swept terminals.
The legs of the insect are realistically modelled in 15 ct yellow gold.
This 1880s brooch secures to the reverse with a hinged pin and security clasp.
This impressive Victorian insect brooch is fitted to the original hinged red leatherette presentation box, with a satin and velvet lined interior, securing with a hinged catch.
The interior of the box bears the renowned retailer's mark 'Wartski LTD, 138 Regent street, London, W.I. and Llanduono'**.
The insect brooch is supplied with an independent diamond grading report card.
This antique brooch has been independently tested using state of the art technology (Niton XL2 Analyzer) and verified as 15 ct gold and silver.
NOTES
* Contrary to what many people may think, the word "synthetic" does not mean fake when it comes to gemstones. In order for a material to be called "synthetic" it must have a natural counterpart. A synthetic ruby will have the same chemical composition as a natural ruby and therefore have an almost identical appearance to the naked eye.
The first ruby formed by melting two smaller rubies together was in 1817, and the first microscopic crystals created from alumina in a laboratory in 1837.
Common practice was to set and enhance fine quality antique jewellery with vibrant and colourful synthetic stones.
** This retailer was known for specialising in high quality works of art, jewellery and objets de vertu; including a long association with the renowned maker Carl Fabergé. The company has since continued its reputable business and in 2011 produced the band for the wedding of H.R.H Prince William and Miss Catherine Middleton.
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.
View our collection of Victorian insect jewellery.
Date: Circa 1880
