Throughout the Georgian and Victorian eras, and across Europe, the symbols used in jewelry carried particular importance to people. In an age of heightened sentiment, sensibility, and sentimentality - where jewelry was frequently given and worn as a token of friendship, love, or mourning - each piece was often encoded with its own personal meanings and messages, through the symbols and materials chosen in its making. Birds were particularly popular motifs; from swallows and eagles to peacocks and owls, each bird held its own particular meaning.

A very rare “drum” brooch of a yellow-breasted bunting flying among a selection of flowers, perhaps meant to express a sentence or sentiment. Bunting birds are considered signs of good luck- seen here with cobalt blue morning glories- two in bloom, four in the bud. The cornflower blue hue of morning glory often denotes intense emotion.

Lastly, we find two buds of an unidentifiable white bloom- perhaps an artistically rendered foxglove? A flower that historically communicates duality, the sincerity in trickery is what the foxglove says. I adore the mystery of a piece like this. Sterling, Victorian, counter-enameled in a cobalt blue that seems studded with white stars.

 

Materials & Features: sterling silver, enamel

Age/Origin: English, c. 1860

Measurements: 30mm, 5.81 grams 

Condition: Excellent condition. Minor associated age wear. 

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.