Antique Brooch with Diamonds & Natural Pearl in Platinum on Gold, Paris c. 1900

Europe at the turn of the century: We are at the height of the Belle Époque, the "beautiful era". The bourgeoisie had already been reveling in great wealth for several decades, and more jewellery had been produced during this period than ever before. This jewellery was an expression of good taste as well as social status. In the evening, diamonds were worn to the opera, the grand dinner or the ball. And those who kept up with the times did not shy away from the modern lines of Art Nouveau: This new style quickly made its way into the most precious evening jewels. The first wearer of this brooch thus also communicated wealth, elegance and zeitgeist. Winter was, as it still is today, the season of balls. After the summer retreat at the country estate, the cooler months were spent in the metropolises and were seen at important societies. The pieces of jewellery also reflect these cool and elegant days. Frosty, glittering diamonds, icy platinum and a single, shimmering pearl with a slightly rosy lustre are combined here to create a fine brooch. The pearl in the center is a very special choice: it is a so-called "mandarin pearl" from China, which was originally part of the court dress of a Chinese official, probably as early as the 18th century. It has two drilled holes on the back, through which the pearl was once sewn to a robe. In the 20th century, these pearls came to Europe - and were given a new lease of life in this brooch, for example. The elegant lines of the brooch could hardly be more typical of the period: It wonderfully captures the Parisian esprit of the years c. 1900. A small hallmark attests to its origin. We supply this beautiful antique piece of jewellery with an independent expert opinion on the natural pearl.

Estimate:$8,951.4

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