A refined and elegant Edwardian stickpin in 14ct yellow gold, c.1900, set with calibré-cut sapphires arranged in a precise circular mount framing a lustrous purplish-pink pearl at the centre. Calibré cutting — in which stones are cut to fit exactly within a predetermined setting — requires considerable skill and gives the mount a clean, jewel-like finish with no visible metal between the stones. The combination of deep blue sapphires and the warm, unusual tone of the pink pearl is particularly striking, the contrast of cool and warm colour giving the piece a quiet sophistication. Hallmarked PH 585, indicating 14ct gold with a continental maker's mark. Head 0.77 × 0.77cm; pin length 7.5cm.

The Details

• Circa: 1900
• Head dimensions: 0.77 × 0.77cm
• Pin length: 7.5cm
• Hallmarks: PH 585 (14ct gold, continental maker's mark)
• Stones: Calibré-cut sapphires; purplish-pink pearl (centre)