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As many of you know, the pansy motif signaled to the giver and receiver that they were always thought of. "Pensez" is the French verb for "thinking of" which sounds like the word, pansy.
Yet, it is less discussed, but apparent, that most pansy leaves were depicted with at least two colors of gemstones, sometimes even three.
To suggest the variegated leaves of the real flower, these colors also helped portray a three dimensionality to the blooms.
In this 18k gold example, two topaz gems, one imperial peachy-hued variety and one precious topaz of a golden yellow, blend with two shades of pink purple almandine garnets and a lilac amethyst.
All are faceted, pear shaped and set in closed back cups with foiling beneath. At the center a natural cushion shaped ruby is placed.
Equally impressive is the 18k gold in rose (for the stem), green for the leaves, and yellow gold for the background of the gemstones.
Circa 1820, this is one of the finer pansy flower brooches to be offered and an impressive size for the day.
