Rose Cut Diamond Heart Locket with Sévigné Bow Brooch Top

A romantic heart-form locket surmounted by a Sévigné bow, set with rose-cut diamonds totaling approximately .95 carats and accented by a single emerald. The form is in conversation with rose cut diamond jewelery from the end of the 18th century, which was revived at the end of the 19th century (rococo revival.) The locket opens to hold your favorite little secrets, in need of close safeguarding!

The Sévigné brooch was named after Madame de Sévigné, the prolific épistolaire extraordinaire who penned thousands of letters (mostly to her daughter, Margueritte.) Contrary to her later mythology, Madame de Sévigné never once mentioned a ‘Secret Language of Brooches’ which many associate with her. The (likely) 19th century invented fable around her bow brooch vernacular, that she developed a way to communicate one’s current romantic status through the placement of one’s bow brooch, holds no water in the many lines of her many letters (now on view at Musee de Carnavalet in Paris. The fanciful language, according to the Victorians, would have read as follows: 

• In the center of the bodice: Signaled "I am looking for love."

• Near the shoulder: Indicated "I am spoken for."

• At the waist: Suggested "I am indifferent."

Regardless, the bow brooch remains ever more romantic with a diamond heart suspended from it… and whatever you keep therein could provide actual evidence of your affections. 

Details:
Weight: 16.12 grams
Stones: Rose cut diamonds, approx. .95 ctw; emerald accent
Metal: 18ct gold, sterling top

Date/Circa: c. 1880, French

Fully french hallmarked for sterling and 18ct and sterling

Condition: Excellent antique condition, slight agewear.

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.