Delicate Gold Brooch with a Burma Ruby, USA, c. 1900

Around 1900, Art Nouveau developed its own distinct style in the United States. American goldsmiths often combined the frequently floral motifs familiar from Europe with a particular attention to materials and surfaces. This brooch beautifully brings both elements together. Its openwork design unfolds like a small flower, with six curved leaves guiding the eye to a delicate ruby at the center. The gold is intricately crafted: it shimmers in the raised areas, while the grained surface in the recesses appears almost matte. The additional fine gold plating gives the 14-karat gold a particularly warm tone. Set between the leaves are six small natural pearls on tiny stems, which create subtle focal points with their luster. At the center sparkles a natural ruby from Burma, now known as Myanmar. The stone weighs approximately 0.29 ct and is completely untreated, meaning its colour has not been enhanced by heating or any other man-made techniques. Rubies from Burma are considered the most coveted gemstones on earth and are correspondingly rare to find. We discovered this delicate and elegant piece of jewellery right here in Berlin.

Estimate:$1,438.16

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