Elegant Brooch with Diamonds in Platinum on Gold, c. 1910

During the Belle Époque, between the end of the 19th century and before the start of the First World War, the lives of wealthy industrialists and aristocrats followed strictly defined patterns. For example, they had to adorn themselves appropriately for every occasion and every age - and woe betide anyone who made a faux pas! A young lady often only received her first white diamond jewelry for her wedding, but she was still required to appear at the wedding ceremony without it. Soon, however, she would be representing her family at festive occasions: At gala dinners, evening receptions or even lavish balls. Here, her diamond jewelry could shine on silk and luxurious velvet fabrics. We would love to know what kind of evenings this brooch once experienced - because it was also designed as evening jewelry. The sparkling diamonds were perfectly accentuated in the new electric light. They are set in platinum, the most modern and precious metal for this type of jewellery at the beginning of the 20th century. The back of the fine piece is made of gold. The shape of the brooch is a single Art Nouveau curve, almost like a pen stroke. It is of such detailed, fine craftsmanship as was not known in any previous era. The centerpiece is a large old-cut diamond of approx. 0.46 ct, which appears like a glittering blossom. It is accompanied by 17 other diamonds. Their cut is far older than the piece of jewelry itself: They have been put to a second use here. The brooch is a high-quality, wearable piece of jewellery history. It was created in the early years of the 20th century and came to us from Hamburg.

Estimate:£1,435.53

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