Le Petit Jardin: French Deco Giardinetti Brooch
Jewelry that takes the form of a basket with tiny multicolored flower shapes within is known as giardinetti jewelry. The label is taken from the Italian word for small garden or small flower arrangement. Initially used to describe a ring with an openwork bezel with a floral form usually set with small gems of a variety of color, the style was devised in Italy during the 17th century and popularized in England during the late 18th and early 19th century where the form was often incorporated into brooches as well.
Here we have a charming hand-made French interpretation of a basket of flowers brooch set with marcasites and molded glass flowers and leaves of chalcedony green, coral and carnelian hues. One of the flowers is partially transparent with inner petals of peach. In addition, glass cabochons dot the floral arrangement. The openwork silver basket is festooned with beaded edges and rose cut marcasites create a marvelous sparkling effect throughout the brooch.
Condition: Excellent
Hallmarks: "Made in France" and two other French hallmarks.
Measurements: 1-9/16 inches (4.1 cm) in width by 1-5/8 inches (4.2 cm) in height. Has a weight of 10.8 grams.
Date & Origin: Circa 1925 and is French in origin.
