An iconic Victorian treasure, adorned with the language of flowers!

Crafted circa 1890 in a vibrant 18 carat gold, this Enamel Floriography Brooch is a dreamy miniature art piece for your person. This brooch is dainty but darling, with a gorgeous floral enamel painting in the center: a large central pink rose, a purple thistle, and a smaller red budding rose, all tied together with a white ribbon – creating the most enchanting bouquet!

To interpret what these flowers mean, one has to fall into the Victorian mind; during the height of Queen Victoria’s reign, interpreting the language of the flowers – that is, assigning a meaning to each floret and blossom – was a popular pastime for many. One’s choice of flowers could symbolize a variety of deep, often romantic and sentimental meanings.

On this brooch, there is a pink rose – which according to the Victorians, signified gratitude, admiration, affection, and general sweetness. Then there’s the purple thistle – a flower with a bolder affectation.

In Victorian culture, these flowers held a more negative connotation, being associated with cemeteries, aggression, and even evil. But, due to this thistle appearing next to such romantic flowers – roses – I think it’s safe to say this purple thistle is interpreted through the lens of the Scots, who held it in high regard during this time: royalty, as well as resilience, strength and pride.

And then there is the final flower – a smaller red budding rose: red roses signified intense passion, amorous love, and adour. To receive a red rose was to receive one’s unabashed declaration of their heart to you. As this rose is small and budding, perhaps it speaks of a growing love? Having these flowers wrapped together in a white band seems to signal a sort of innocence amidst the passionate love, and a sweetness that yearns to endure forever.

How positively romantic!

This brooch is a special treasure indeed; between its sentimental value and gorgeous, unique construction, it is a wonderful addition to any antique jewelry collection!

Materials and Features: 18ct, multicolor enamel

Age/Origin: English, 1890

Marks: (K18)

(MP+CE) 3 8 1 4 (G)

Measurements: 1.5” diameter, 4.7g

Condition: Excellent, the enamel is in very good condition with over 15 different colors and shades used to create the painting.

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.