Vintage Pendant/Brooch in Shape of Vine Leaf With Diamonds & Pearl, c. 2000

A dewdrop-studded leaf, a large vine leaf, captivates our senses. Adorned entirely with diamonds, it sparkles in the light with a joy that is truly mesmerising. A large grey Tahitian pearl is suspended from the leaf, lending the design both elegance and balance. Jewellery inspired by natural forms has been a recurring theme since the late 18th century. The shapes and details have evolved over time, with craftsmanship becoming increasingly intricate from one generation to the next, reflecting advances in goldsmithing and gemstone-setting techniques. In this particular piece, the precise diamond cuts, the choice of high-quality white gold, and the inclusion of a Tahitian pearl suggest it was created around the year 2000. The choice of vine leaf motifs is not merely a reference to the pleasures of wine, revered since antiquity. In early 19th-century thought, wine – when enjoyed in moderation – was also associated with the enhancement of intellectual clarity (rather than its obscuration!). In this context, the enduring popularity of the porcelain pattern “Wreath of Green Vine” by Meissen, first designed in 1817, can also be understood. We acquired this jewellery piece in Hamburg. It can be worn either as a brooch, complete with the Tahitian pearl, or as a pendant. By detaching the pearl, the brooch transforms into a pendant that pairs beautifully with a fine white gold chain. The piece is in excellent condition. An independent appraisal has confirmed the quality of the materials used.

Estimate:£10,949.15

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