Victorian Garnet Diamond Pendant Brooch

The Victorians had what amounts to a love affair with garnets. They wore garnets on their fingers, around their necks, in their ears and even on their cravats. And it is no wonder as the deep warm red gem was much sought after and perceived as a gift of love.

Set amidst a blanket of old mine and rose cut diamonds reclines a cabochon garnet. Regal in its translucency the color of the prized pomegranate fruit, the combination of garnet and diamonds creates a playground for light to dazzle the eye. At the crest reigns the traditional bow form, resplendently encrusted with diamonds. With twenty-six (26) rose cuts in all (ranging from melees to .03 carats) and forty-three (43) old mine cuts (with weights that vary from .01 to .12 carats) this marvelous pendant brooch has a total diamond weight of approximately 1.3 to 1.4 carats. The stones are mounted in a silver setting and placed around the garnet is a gold bezel. The reverse of the piece is gold wash and the pin stem and early safety clasp are made of gold.

Measures 1-9/16 inches (3.9 cm) in length by over 1 inch (2.6 cm) across. In good condition; one of the smallest rose cuts replaced; although not apparent when worn, wear and surface scratches to garnet visible with close inspection or under bright light. Dates to circa 1890 and the Victorian Aesthetic Period.

Note: All diamond weights are approximate since the stones were not removed from their mounts to preserve the integrity of the setting.