Antique 15ct Gold, Amethyst and Seed Pearl Scroll Brooch, England, Edwardian Period, 1900s

Antique Edwardian 15ct Gold Amethyst and Seed Pearl Scroll Brooch, England, c. 1900

A very elegant antique Edwardian brooch, beautifully formed in yellow gold and centred by a vivid oval-cut amethyst surrounded by 19 graduated natural seed pearls.

Particularly attractive is the distinctive openwork shape. The brooch is composed of a beautifully balanced arrangement of sweeping gold scrolls, curling symmetrically around the central gemstone and extending outward into graceful, pearl-set terminals. Smaller inward-facing scrolls and the double-curved motif beneath the amethyst complete the design, creating an elaborate silhouette while retaining the lightness and delicacy characteristic of jewellery from this period.

The oval faceted amethyst forms the focal point of the composition, displaying a rich violet-purple colour that contrasts beautifully with the warm yellow gold and soft lustre of the seed pearls.

Rather than being set into a heavy solid mount, the gemstone and pearls appear almost suspended within the scrolling framework. The use of open space gives the brooch an especially graceful appearance and allows the individual curves of the goldwork to remain clearly visible when worn.

The combination of scrolling botanical forms, pearls, coloured gemstone and delicate openwork is characteristic of jewellery produced around the transition from the late Victorian into the Edwardian period, circa 1900–1910.

The reverse reveals the construction of the brooch and its open-backed amethyst setting, allowing light to enter the stone. It retains its hinged brooch pin together with a separate safety chain and safety pin.
The gold is unmarked but has been tested as approximately 15-carat yellow gold.

Condition
Very good antique condition with light age-related wear consistent with its age.

The amethyst remains securely set and displays beautifully. All 19 seed pearls are present and the scrolling gold framework remains in good condition.

The brooch retains its pin fastening together with its safety chain and separate safety pin.

Please refer to the detailed photographs, which form part of the condition description.

Details
Period: Edwardian, circa 1900–1910
Country of manufacture: United Kingdom
Material: Yellow gold, tested as approximately 15ct
Gemstone: Amethyst
Amethyst dimensions: approximately 8 × 6 mm
Decoration: 19 graduated natural seed pearls

Width: approximately 3.5 cm
Height: approximately 2.9 cm
Weight: approximately 5 g

Fastening: Hinged brooch pin with safety chain and separate safety pin.

A beautifully proportioned antique jewel, distinguished by its rich amethyst centre, delicate pearl decoration and particularly elegant scrolling openwork form.