An exceptional example of a Victorian Scottish dirk brooch in 15ct gold, combining the full range of traditional Scottish hardstones with five natural Scottish pearls. The dirk — a form of dagger — was a traditional element of Highland dress, and dirk brooches became highly fashionable during the Victorian Highland Revival, popularised by Queen Victoria's love of Scotland and Balmoral. This example is beautifully composed: a faceted cairngorm to the top, three stone sections set with agate, carnelian, and bloodstone, and five Scottish pearls throughout, all on an engraved gold base. A richly characterful piece of Scottish antique jewellery.

The Details

• Circa: 1860–1880
• Weight: 21.5g
• Length: 4 inches (approx. 10cm)
• Hallmarks: Unhallmarked, tests as 15ct gold
• Stones: Cairngorm, agate, carnelian, bloodstone, Scottish pearls