VICTORIAN SCOTTISH SILVER Malachite and Granite Brooch Woven Effect 55mm x 40mm

Victorian Scottish Silver Hardstone Brooch - Malachite and Granite. A very lovely example of Victorian Scottish hardstone jewellery in the form of a large oval brooch, inlaid with alternating panels of grey granite and green malachite, cunningly designed to create a trompe l'oeil woven effect and encircled with a silver bezel mount. The silver is not hallmarked, typical in these older Scottish hardstone brooches, but is in good shape with the pin, hinges and closure all working fine.

There are some small losses to the front of the piece, and a crack to the back (see pics and condition report for further details). While this brooch undeniably shows signs of age, I think it has so much more to give and in some ways, honest wear to antique jewellery can actually be reassuring as it helps to confirm its age and shows how popular a piece it has been for the owner(s) through the years. The large size, the artistry of design and the colour of the stones make this an imposing and striking piece, just a little different from the usual agates to be found in this type of jewellery, while the lovely Victorian silver catches the light in a halo all around the brooch.

A classy and sophisticated piece. More pics / details available on request.