A beautiful example of Victorian Etruscan Revival jewellery, circa 1890, in warm yellow gold. The Etruscan Revival movement — which flourished from the 1860s through to the 1890s — was inspired by the rediscovery of ancient Etruscan goldwork in Italy, and was characterised by its use of granulation, cannetille wirework, and hanging spheres or drops. This brooch captures the style beautifully: a distinctive circular form with intricate engraved floral detailing across the face, and delicate hanging gold spheres around the perimeter that catch the light and shimmer with every movement.

At 4 × 5cm and 9g, this is a brooch of considerable presence. The hallmark reads 14k to the catch but tests as 15ct gold — a common characteristic of American-made jewellery of the period imported into Britain, where 15ct was the standard. A distinguished piece for the collector of Victorian antique jewellery.

The Details

• Circa: 1890
• Style: Etruscan Revival
• Metal: 15ct gold (hallmarked 14k to catch, tests as 15ct)
• Weight: 9g
• Dimensions: 4 × 5cm