A distinguished Edwardian brooch, circa 1910, combining old-cut diamonds with rare round-cut demantoid garnets in a refined circular composition. Demantoid garnet — the rarest and most valuable variety of garnet — is prized above all for its extraordinary dispersion: a fire that exceeds even that of diamond, producing vivid flashes of spectral colour that give the stone an almost electric brilliance. The finest demantoids come from the Ural Mountains of Russia, and Edwardian jewellers were among the first to use them extensively in fine jewellery. To find them in a piece of this quality and condition is genuinely rare.

Set in 18ct gold with platinum-mounted old-cut diamonds — the classic Edwardian combination of metals — the 0.42 carats of diamonds and 1.32 carats of demantoid garnets create a composition of exceptional brilliance and colour. Secured with a pin and roller catch. An outstanding piece for the serious collector of Edwardian antique jewellery.

The Details

• Circa: 1910
• Metal: 18ct gold with platinum settings (tests as 18ct gold and platinum)
• Diamonds: Old cut, est. 0.42cts
• Demantoid garnets: Round cut, est. 1.32cts
• Weight: 3.5g
• Diameter: 2.2cm