Napoleon III Brooch, Agate Cameo And Diamonds On Yellow Gold And Platinum

A Napoleon III-era decorative brooch, crafted from 750/°° yellow gold (18 KT, owl hallmark) and platinum (mascaron head hallmark), adorned at its center with a delicate oval cameo depicting a woman’s profile.

The cameo features exquisite relief carving. The female face, depicted in classical profile, stands out with great finesse against a deep black background. The hair, which is particularly intricately rendered, is pulled back into an elaborate bun composed of curls and finely detailed strands.

It is surrounded by an openwork yellow gold setting decorated with scrollwork and foliage motifs. Six rose-cut diamonds, set in platinum elements arranged evenly around the cameo, punctuate this border and add subtle touches of light. The contrast between the black of the cameo, the yellow gold, and the sparkle of the diamonds is particularly characteristic of the taste of the second half of the 19th century.

The ornamental head is extended by a slender yellow gold pin, bringing the total length of the piece to 8.46 cm. In the 19th century, this type of pin was a true piece of decorative jewelry, capable of being worn on a tie, a scarf, or various items of clothing. Its design still allows for multiple ways of wearing it today, notably as a lapel pin, as illustrated in the photograph of it being worn.

The piece has survived to the present day in a remarkable state of preservation. The cameo is intact, with no missing parts, and retains all the delicacy of its modeling. The openwork setting, the gemstone mountings, and the long shank are also very well preserved.

A particularly captivating piece of Napoleon III jewelry, notable for its chromatic contrast, the delicacy of its cameo, and the elegance of its composition—all representative of the historicist taste of the second half of the 19th century.

Estimated total diamond weight: approximately 0.06 ct

Gross weight: 6.65 g

Condition: imperceptible micro-scratches, very good overall condition, cameo intact, with no chips.

Payment can be made entirely online via the website, or in 4 installments via PayPal, for a maximum amount of 2,000 €.

We’re happy to provide any additional information regarding alternative payment methods or any balance for purchases exceeding this amount.

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Our reference: HS23215