Wonderful platinum brooch with natural pearl & diamonds, around 1910

The Edwardian era (1901-10), named after Edward VII., was the last era in British history that was named after its monarch. Edward was, in almost every way, the opposite of his mother, the late Queen Victoria: full of joie de vivre, with an inclination towards luxury and beautiful women, he was known as a Casanova even in his earlier role as Prince of Wales. He liked to consort with the nouveau riche High Society and enjoyed to spend his time at glamorous social events, where his sense of style made him an arbiter of men's fashion. Jewellery fashion, too, changed during Edward's reign. The heavy, golden pieces of Victorian days were put aside in favour of more delicate and ethereal pieces. Especially platinum jewellery was in high demand, owing to its bright colour that paired well with the pastel hues of modern dresses. Modern techniques allowed goldsmiths to work the coveted platinum, a metal much harder than gold, into the desired shapes. It was this hardness of the platinum that allowed jewellery makers to fashion pieces in exceedingly detailed work, reminiscent of lace. The brooch at hand is a perfect example of the fineness of craftsmanship which the use of platinum brought on. The entire surface consists of detailed openwork, structured in milgrain technique and set with overall 52 diamonds in the Old European Cut. A half-carat diamond takes centre stage. Below, a precious natural pearl is suspended to round off the airy composition. From this harmonious interplay of design, materials and craftsmanship, the brooch emerges as a perfect example of late Belle Époque jewellery. It is accompanied by the independent certificate of a renowned gemological institute.

Estimate:$12,921.01

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