A refined Art Nouveau stickpin in 18ct gold, c.1910, centred on an elongated almandine garnet of deep, rich colour, framed by delicate milgrain detailing and adorned with a flowing ribbon of enamel that culminates in an inverted fleur-de-lis flourish. The composition is a fine example of the Art Nouveau sensibility — the organic, flowing line of the enamel ribbon contrasting with the precision of the milgrain border, the whole unified by the warm, saturated red of the almandine. Almandine garnets, with their deep iron-red colour, were a favoured stone in Art Nouveau jewellery, their richness complementing the movement's preference for warm, natural tones over the cooler brilliance of diamonds. Hallmarked 18K, indicating American or continental European origin. Head 1.9 × 1.2cm; pin length 7cm.

The Details

• Circa: 1910
• Head dimensions: 1.9 × 1.2cm
• Pin length: 7cm
• Hallmarks: 18K (American or continental European)
• Stone: Almandine garnet
• Detail: Milgrain border; enamel ribbon; inverted fleur-de-lis flourish