Victorian Diamond Brooch & Hair Pin in Box

The crescent moon was one of the more popular designs (along with stars) of the 1880's and 90's. Clever Victorian jewelers designed a gem-studded hair pin with a removable screw fitting which enables the gem to be worn as a brooch as well. This glittering glimpse of the heavens is encrusted with forty-two (42) sparkling old mine cut diamonds that include two sets of large gems on each of the edges of the crescent.

The stones range in size from .01 to .05 carats with an estimated total diamond weight of .85 carats. The moon is silver topped 14k yellow gold and the hair pin is yellow gold plated. The safety chain was added at a later date. If desired, this can be removed.

The original fitted box, with cream colored silk interior marked “Hamilton & Inches, 88 Princess Street, Edinburgh (Scotland)” has a removable maroon velvet pad. Designed to hold the brooch, the pad when lifted reveals a fitted slot in silk for the hair pin.

Condition: Excellent for the brooch and pin. Box has expected light wear to the exterior; interior is very good to excellent.

Measurements: Brooch is more than 1 inch (2.6 cm) in length by more than 1-1/16 inches (2.7 cm) in width by ½ of an inch (0.7 cm) in depth. The hair pin itself is 3-3/4 inches (9.5 cm) in length and 4-5/8 inches (11.7 cm) with the brooch. Weight of 5.3 grams for diamond moon brooch and safety chain alone.

Date & Origin: Circa 1880. Scottish or British in origin.

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