Victorian Bee Brooch
An incredible Victorian bee brooch dating from the latter half of the 19th century, circa 1880. The bee, a bumblebee no less, is exquisitely formed, with alternating bands of diamonds and black enamel forming its stripy abdomen, a raspberry-pink cabochon garnet thorax, ruby eyes, and diamonds set onto its wings and the ends of its antennae. It's crafted in 18 carat gold and silver, and features a screw thread on the back which will have - originally - allowed for wear in a variety of different ways. The original fittings are missing, with a brooch back currently paired with the bee. Get in touch to discuss further conversion options to make it wearable as a pendant etc.
The Victorians were big on symbolism, particularly in their jewellery. It was a time of great upheaval; imperialism, the industrial revolution and huge advancements in scientific understanding and methodology radically changed Britain's perception of its past and future. With it came great social upheaval and a philosophy of purity, as the Victorians resolved to place themselves as the apotheosis of what it meant to be a moral and 'civilised' society. The bee was a popular motif during the era, representing hard work, cooperation, industriousness and loyalty. Pearls were also often associated with purity, chastity and grace. There are countless ways to analyse the symbology of this charming brooch, but it also holds merit on its own as a remarkable (and very cute) piece of jewellery.
Era: Victorian, circa 1880
Size: 3.3cm by 2.2cm
Stones: Garnet (variety almandine-pyrope), Rose Cut Diamonds, Ruby Cabochons
Marks: Brooch fittings have French assay marks (eagle head for 18ct gold), bee tests as 18ct gold and silver
Condition: Good antique condition. Some surface wear to the enamel. The brooch fitting is not original to the bee. Get in touch to discuss options to convert to a pendant
Full appraisal document provided with each item.
This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable).
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain).
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Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
RM Special Delivery (UK domestic)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£55 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
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Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved and often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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