DATE: Georgian, c.1800
A spectacular, Museum quality, acrostic brooch dating from the early 19th Century. The main body is a beautifully hand-chased gold key, featuring intricate cross-hatched patterns and foliate details. Dangling from the key are two further components: a “heart padlock” with locket compartment to the back and a ruby to set on the front, and a chain with six gem-set drops that spell out the popular romantic sentiment REGARD.
It’s modelled in 15k gold throughout, fully original and right out of a jewellery book. The craftsmanship and attention to detail, combined with various romantic sentiments, make this a very special piece indeed. We’ve never seen one before, and likely won’t ever see another quite like it.
STONES
Natural Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, and Diamond
MEASUREMENTS
4.3 x 3.3cm
WEIGHT
6.8g
MARKS
No marks present, tests as 15k gold
CONDITION
Excellent, the diamond drop has been re-attached at some point
