Antique Victorian 3.50+ Carat Old-cut Diamond Bow Brooch, Silver And Gold

Antique Victorian 3.50+ Carat Old-Cut Diamond Bow Brooch, Silver and Gold

An exceptional antique diamond bow brooch, beautifully constructed in the traditional combination of silver over yellow gold and set with approximately 53 individually mounted old-cut and rose-cut diamonds, with an estimated combined diamond weight in excess of 3.50 carats.

The brooch is designed as an elegant stylised ribbon bow, with sweeping openwork scrolls terminating in larger old-cut diamonds and a dramatic articulated-looking ribbon arrangement beneath. Its symmetrical composition and extensive diamond setting give the jewel remarkable presence despite its highly refined proportions.

At the centre is an impressive old-cut diamond estimated at approximately 1.00 carat, surrounded by graduated old-cut and rose-cut stones. The diamonds range from tiny accent stones of approximately 0.001 carat through to the substantial central stone, creating the characteristic irregular scintillation and depth associated with hand-cut antique diamonds.

The diamonds have been assessed as approximately VS clarity with an I/J colour range, and the jewel has an estimated total diamond weight exceeding 3.50 carats.

The diamonds are mounted principally in finely worked silver cut-down settings, a technique historically favoured because the white metal enhances the appearance of the stones. The silver face is supported by a substantial yellow gold backing framework, illustrating the sophisticated construction associated with fine antique jewellery.

The reverse reveals an especially interesting feature: a central removable screw-fitting mechanism, strongly suggesting that the jewel was originally conceived as a convertible piece and could previously have been mounted or suspended as a pendant. Convertible jewels were particularly fashionable among affluent clients during the 19th century, allowing important pieces to be worn in several different configurations.

The brooch is presently fitted with a long yellow gold pin and traditional C-clasp. The pin stem is stamped with the maker’s initials “H & C”, together with the numeral “7”. No official assay hallmarks are present.

Measuring approximately 38 mm wide and weighing 12.3 grams, this is a particularly impressive antique diamond jewel combining substantial diamond weight, beautiful period craftsmanship and an elegant, timeless bow design.

Details

Period: 19th Century / Victorian

Type: Bow Brooch / Convertible Jewel

Setting: Silver over Yellow Gold

Diamonds: Approximately 53 Old-Cut and Rose-Cut Diamonds

Estimated Total Diamond Weight: In Excess of 3.50 Carats

Largest Diamond: Approximately 1.00 Carat Old Cut

Assessed Colour: Approximately I/J

Assessed Clarity: Approximately VS

Width: Approximately 38 mm

Weight: Approximately 12.3 grams

Maker’s Mark: H & C

Additional Mark: 7

Fastening: Gold Pin with Traditional C-Clasp

Additional Feature: Removable Screw Fitting to Reverse, indicating a former convertible pendant configuration

A highly desirable example of Victorian diamond jewellery, distinguished by its substantial central old-cut diamond, extensive hand-set diamond decoration and sophisticated silver-and-gold construction.