Hot 100

A great looking silver bangle. The motif is a buckle which literally means "Loyalty, Strength and Protection". This would have been given as a gift of love from an admirer in 1893. }

A very pretty brooch in its original case that was made circa 1890. It was retailed by Henry Tessier who were the Court Jewellers based in 104C Mount Street, Grosvenor Square in London. It is a lovely intertwined design and has been set with three turquoise and graduated diamonds and rose diamonds. The use of the turquoise represents a forget me not flower which literally means “Forget me not” and the diamonds mean “Eternal love”. It comes in its original red Moroccan case. }

A pretty pair of 18ct white gold drop earrings that have each been set with a natural split pearl at the top and a natural pearl at the base. Above each pearl are five rose diamonds. The design is simple but very striking }

These 18ct white gold earrings are adorable as they are so mini! Beautifully made with a good pigeon blood oval ruby in each one with tiny diamonds around them. They were made in London in 1953, which was the year that Queen Elizabeth 11 was crowned Queen of England }

Green is such a pretty colour to wear and this necklace that was made circa 1910-1920 is no exception. It is silver and has cascades of green paste drops. It sits beautifully when worn }

A very pretty and very well made made 9ct gold bracelet that was made circa 1900-1910. It has been set with eight blister pearls within gold mounts and a stylised leaf design. It may have been retailed by Murrle Bennett who operated from a retail premises in Regent Street, London, and were well known for their high quality jewellery by various designers }

A beautiful 18ct gold chain with a hand clasp that was made circa 1820. It is a good wearable length so it could be worn on a daily basis. Each link has a stars motif which you see quite a lot on Georgian chains. The hand clasp is three colour red, yellow and green gold and has been set with turquoise in a flower design after the Forget me not flower on the cuff. There is a ring on one finger that has been set with a rose cut garnet and the hand has an etched surface. The reverse has engraved cuff detail. A perfect chain to wear }

A beautiful 18ct gold brooch that was made in France in the Art Nouveau period circa 1900-1910. It is designed as a fuchsia with three stamens set with diamonds. The two leaves on the left have plique-à-jour enamel in between. The term plique-à-jour (French for "letting in daylight") is a vitreous enamelling technique where the enamel is applied in cells with no backing in the final product, so light can shine through the transparent or translucent enamel. It is in effect a miniature version of stained-glass and is considered very challenging technically. The technique is similar to that of cloisonné, but using a temporary backing that after firing is dissolved by acid or rubbed away. It is difficult to attribute it to a particular jeweller, but it was certainly made to a very high standard. }

A great looking silver bangle. The motif is a buckle which literally means "Loyalty, Strength and Protection". This would have been given as a gift of love from an admirer in 1893. }

A charming hand painted porcelain sealA stone or metal plaque carved with an image (an intaglio) but with design reversed so that it is readable when impressed in wax. More of a gentleman. He is wearing a red jacket with gold buttons and a black cap. There is a circle of gold at the base set with a carnelian​A translucent red variety of chalcedony which in its turn is a form of cryptocrystalline quartz. ​Carnelian has​ been known and used since antiquity when it was sourced from the surfaces of the Egyptian and Arabian deserts. The ​most prized carnelian has a true blood-red color. More. It is hard to give an exact date of when this was made but I would say around 1860-1880}

This is an amazing 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold necklace that was made during the 1940-1950 period. It is composed of articulatedWhen something has segments connected by flexible joints. More sections designed so that it curves around the neck and sits beautifully. It can be worn on a daily basis as it looks so smart in the daytime and at night too. We have tried researching the hand mark but have had no luck!}

A lovely example of a Scottish brooch that was made circa 1860. It is set with various different agates that were sourced in the river beds in Scotland. This style grew up around Queen Victoria’s purchase of Balmoral Castle in 1860. Many pieces were made as tourist trinkets to the travellers who flocked to the Cairngorms to discover the beauty and serenity of the Scottish mountains. This brooch is a coiled rope design and has been set with specially chosen agates that contrast beautifully }

This brooch exemplifies the jewellers art at the beginning of the 20th century. They realised that platinum was a much better metal to use in the setting of gemstones as it was so hard and durable, unlike silver which is a soft and cumbersome metal. The result was a light and very pretty look and many pieces were produced such as this bow brooch which shows the diamonds off within a cobweb design. It looks wonderful when worn on a plain lapel as the pierced work adds contrast to the colour beneath. }

An impressive pair of 18ct gold and citrine drop earrings that were made circa 1880. The citrines are well matched and are kite shaped briolette cuts that reflect the light beautifully. The tops are curved diamond shapes that compliment the drops. They look fantastic when worn }

A pretty silver bow brooch that has been set with white paste. It was made circa 1880. It is a very wearable piece of jewellery and could easily be mistaken for the real thing! }

A very stylish silver brooch that is typical of the late Art Nouveau period, circa 1915. Geometric forms are creeping in but there are still elements from the Art Nouveau period. It has been set with dyed blue chalcedony. A company that made similar pieces was Heinrich Levinger, a Jugendstil jeweller and manufacturing jeweller, established in 1875 in Pforzheim, Germany. His company was known as Levinger & Bissinger from 1903-1909. Two designers that worked for him Were Otto Prutscher and Georg Kleemann. There are two maker's marks on the pin and clasp that I have been unable to identify }

A very pretty pair of silver drop earrings that were made circa 1890-1910. They have been set with white paste with a pear shaped pink paste in each one with fine silver wire work surrounds. Above is a white paste within a similar wire work design. The backs have a lovely design on the silver. They look so pretty when worn. }

An unusual 9ct gold bracelet that was made circa 1900-1910 and retailed by Murrle Bennett and Company in Regent's Street. London. Murrle, Bennett and Company was a wholesale jewellers established in London in 1884 by Ernst Mürrle and J B Bennett. They sold the jewellery fashions of the time and imported many pieces by Theodor Farhner from Pfortzeim in Germany. This is a particularly pretty bracelet and has been set with four peridots and four blister pearls within gold decorated wire work tendrils. It has a hidden clasp and a safety chain }

A useful narrow 14ct white gold chain that is composed of box links. It can be worn with a pendant. }

A delightful brooch that was made circa 1910-1920. It has a Royal blue enamel base. Mounted on the enamel is a silver basket of flowers which has been set with graded marcasite (iron pyrites) There is marcasite around the edge and marcasite flowers at either end. Marcasite to all intents and purposes looks and is cut like rose diamonds as it glitters when it catches the light. What a lovely gift instead of a bunch of flowers! }

A pretty pair of 18ct white gold earrings with comfortable hinge back fittings. The large diamonds are half a carat each, and have a small diamond above each one. The white gold work has a pierced leaf pattern that gives the earrings a lighter look. The length is ideal for both day and night wear. }

A smart pair of 18ct gold earrings that were made in the 1930s. Each earring has been set with a faceted piece of nephrite. The name Nephrite comes from the Greek word ‘nephros’, which means ‘kidney’. It’s because of the rounded and kidney-shaped Nephrite pebbles and boulders that convinced people to think that this stone can cure kidney ailments and diseases. Either way they are beautiful deep green stones with little dark flecks within. They measure 1.8 cms across so they look impressive when worn }

A good looking pair of 9ct gold snake earrings with ruby eyes that were made by Cropp & Farr in Birmingham in 1968. Cropp & Farr were a well known company who operated from Hatton Garden. In the 1947 Olympia fair British Industries Fair they were listed as “Manufacturers of Fine Quality Inexpensive Gem-Set Jewellery, Specialising in Coloured Stones and Diamonds. Aquamarines, Topaz, Zircons, etc also Gold Jewellery, Signets, Sporting Brooches, Charms, Cuff-Links and Gents’ Dress Sets”. Their pieces are always well made and wearable as with these earrings }

A lovely, striking natural rock crystal collar which has one silver large round bead and a silver clasp. It is an impressive look on the neck. }

A useful pair of 18ct white gold and diamond earrings that can be worn on a daily basis. The diamonds have a total weight of just under three quarters of a carat and are well matched bright white stones. They have secure hinge back fittings }

These are really pretty earrings. They are 18ct gold with a platinum top and were made circa 1910-1920. The opals are very well matched and display lively flashes of red, green and blue. Each opal is surrounded by ten small diamonds that add a lovely contrast. They can be worn on an every day basis }

A really pretty 18ct gold chain that was made in France circa 1890-1910 in the Belle Epoque period. It is 53 centimetres long and has ornate pierced links with plain links in between. It is a good medium length and can be worn on a daily basis }

A useful 14ct white gold chain with box links. It can be worn on its own or with a pendant. }

A really pretty pair of 18ct gold earrings. Each one has been set a cabochon cut moonstone with a good bright white diamond above it. Moonstone is the birthstone for the month of June and the stone traditionally given in celebration of the 13th anniversary of marriage. The stone was also prized by the Romans, who thought it was magically formed out of moonlight. The fittings are secure hinge backs. They were made circa 1900-1910 in France. }

If you like amethysts then this 9ct gold necklace is ideal as it is a simple design but looks so good when worn. It is a continuous line of well matched round cut amethysts with 9ct gold links in between terminating in a barrel clasp. It was made circa 1900-1910 }

An unusual pair of late Georgian 18ct gold triple drop banded agate earrings. The wires hinge back which was common in the 1820s. }

A good quality 15ct gold wide bangle that was made circa 1880. At that time there was a movement called the Etruscan Revival as many finds from the Etruscan period were being unearthed in Italy. Jewellers such as Castellani embraced the challenge of recreating the art and pieces were painstakingly made with hand applied gold wire work. This bangle is an excellent example of the craftsmanship with fine detail and pierced work throughout. }

A smart 15ct gold bangle that was made circa 1900-1910. It is an open work design with a line of graded natural split pearls across the top. It has a secure clasp and a safety chain for added security }

A chic looking 15ct gold bangle that was made circa 1910. It is a lovely ribbed design and is marked on the clasp 15 for 15ct gold. It has a safety chain for extra security. This bangle can be worn on its own or stacked with other bangles }

A good looking and very well made 18ct gold bracelet that was made in Austria circa 1900-1920. It has been set with a square cut emerald and two diamonds in a continuous articulated knot design. Austrian jewellery from this period is invariably of lovely quality and easy to wear. }

A pretty pair of silver hair pins that would have been used to fix a chignon. The tops have been engraved with a diamond and dot design. They were made circa 1860. It is lovely to have a pair still intact }

An unusual and original pair of articulated drop earrings that were made circa 1780-1800 in Portugal. They have gold backs and silver fronts and have been set with rose cut diamonds with three acorn drops on each earring. The acorn is a symbol of fertility and immortality, probably because they are the seeds of the "mighty oak" so these may have been a wedding gift. The ear wires are hinge backs so they enter the ear from behind. They look amazing when worn }

A useful pair of purple coloured paste earrings which have been converted from Georgian studs. They have gold wires and the pastes are mounted in silver. The two pastes have been foiled at the back so they have a lovely translucent appearance and look like amethysts. In the Georgian period amethyst was an expensive stone as they had just begun importing them from Brazil, so paste imitations were made and are very desirable and collectable today. }

A good pair of cultured pearl and diamond earrings that were made in the 1950s. The pearls are well matched creamy white and are surrounded by small very white diamonds. The front of the earrings is platinum and the back is 18ct yellow gold. They are in great condition and look really lovely on the ear as they are a nice size. }

A pretty 9ct gold medium length chain that can be worn on its own or with other chains and a pendant if wished. It was made circa 1910. }

A fine quality 15ct gold bangle that was made circa 1900-1910. It has been set with three green garnets and two bright white diamonds within star settings with a gold rope border. The proper name for a green garnet is a demantoid garnet. Although garnets have been known since ancient times, the demantoid variety was not discovered until 1868 in Russia’s western central Ural Mountains. Miners were immediately stunned by the highly refractive nature of the gem material. They began comparing it to diamond and referred to it as “demantoid”, from the French “demant” meaning diamond. The reason is obvious, with its high brilliance and dispersion. These bright apple green stones are comparatively rare and very expensive and were popular during the Edwardian period. This bangle is a good example of the contrast between the apple green garnets and the diamonds. }

A spectacular large rose diamond brooch that was made in the early to mid nineteenth century. It is a floral spray and has been cleverly set with graded and shaped rose diamonds in the forms of a flower with buds and leaves. There is a secure double pin on the reverse so it sits well when worn. }

This is a very fine micro mosaic brooch. It was made circa 1850 in 18ct gold. The micro mosaic is set into a blue glass surround. The origins of micro mosaics date back to Roman times. The technique is quite complicated. Micro mosaics were made of heated glass that was pulled into small strands and cut into tiny pieces called tesserae. Metal oxides were then added to the glass to achieve colour. The tesserae were then placed and glued to form an image. This was in turn enclosed by a surround of stone or glass and then placed in a frame. This brooch is from the mid 19th century (circa 1860) when micro mosaics were sold to visitors on “The Grand Tour” in Italy. The mount is a wavy ribbon pattern. Micro mosaic is becoming very hard to find especially in good condition. }

A very decorative pair of silver drop earrings that were made circa 1900-1920. They are well designed with a flower in the centre at the bottom set with blue and white paste. They are very striking when worn and could easily be mistaken for diamonds and sapphires! }

A very stylish 18ct gold feather brooch that was made in the 1950s. It has a line of graded diamonds up the centre with another diamond at each end. This brooch looks wonderful when worn on a lapel. }

A very good pair of diamond and sapphire oval cluster earrings that were made in the 1920s in Austria. They are 14ct white gold and set with two well matched sapphires. They are surrounded by bright white diamonds with a total weight of 1.60 carats. They have comfortable hinge back fittings. }

Sampson Mordan who was born in 1790 and died in 1843. He was a silversmith and a co-inventor of the first patented mechanical pencil. During his youth, he was an apprentice of the inventor and locksmith Joseph Bramah, who patented the first elastic ink reservoir for a fountain pen. In 1822, Mordan and his co-inventor John Isaac Hawkins filed the first patent in Great Britain for a metal pencil with an internal mechanism for propelling the graphite “lead” shaft forward during use, as an improvement on the less complex lead holders that merely clutched the pencil lead to hold it into a single position. These pencils are now highly collectible Mordan bought out Hawkins and entered into a business partnership with Gabriel Riddle, an established stationer. From 1823 to 1837, they manufactured and sold silver mechanical pencils with the marking “SMGR”. After the partnership with Riddle dissolved, Mordan continued to sell his silver pencils as “S. Mordan & Co.” This gold pencil is marked S.Mordan & Co. It can be worn on a medium length chain on its own or with other items. }

A smart pair of Art Deco clip on earrings. They are 18ct white gold and clip on up the ear. This was a typical design in the 1920s and looks good with todays fashions too. They have been set with square cut sapphires and diamonds in a stylised flower design. }

A very pretty pair of 15ct gold and silver sapphire and diamond drop earrings that were made circa 1900. They are composed of articulated leaves and buds that were a typical feature in Edwardian period jewellery. It was all about lightness of form. The sapphires are very well matched Royal blue colour stones and the diamonds catch the light beautifully. A lovely pair of earrings that look wonderful in a candlelit setting. }

A heavy gage 18ct gold bracelet with a platinum top that was made circa 1910. It is the prettiest of styles with three sections of leaves and flowers set with diamonds and natural pearls. In between are quatrefoils set with diamonds. The top is platinum and the main body is 18ct gold. }

A 9ct gold rocking horse. A perfect present for a baby or a Godchild or an aspiring horse lover! }

A heavy platinum bracelet that was made in the 1920s. It is composed of seventeen sections, each one set with a good bright white diamond with articulated sections in between set with smaller diamonds. It is a really smart look and very wearable. }

A smart pair of round platinum earrings that were made circa 1920. They are set with one transition cut diamond in the middle and small rose cut diamonds around the edge. The lines of platinum give the earrings a light and pretty look. }

A lovely two colour deep grey and lighter grey agate egg shaped pendant or charm that was made in the early 1900s. It is possibly of Russian origin. }

A fantastic and impressive platinum bracelet with six articulated sections set with seven graded diamonds in a line with curved bands of diamonds on either side. The total diamond weight is five carats with the centre three diamonds around a half carat each. It was made in the 1920s and is typical of that period with it's geometric design. A wonderful bracelet to wear on special occasions. https://static.antiquejewellerycompany.com/2018/10/496M.mp3 }

A really wonderful platinum necklace set with good well matched graded white diamonds, the largest of which is a carat. The total weight is approximately 5.20 carats. It was made in the Edwardian period, circa 1900-1914 and is typical of the style from that era with flower and leaf motifs. Platinum is a very strong metal so it can be used sparingly unlike earlier silver pieces which look heavier than this necklace. The result is a lace like quality. There is added millgrain detail to the edges of the platinum. Millgrain was achieved with the use of a knurling tool and looks like little grains, hence the term, on the platinum. This necklace would be wonderful worn on the wedding day and subsequent occasions as it is so special. https://static.antiquejewellerycompany.com/2018/10/344M.mp3 }

An unusual and very pretty 15ct gold bangle with a pair of strawberry red enamelled hearts surrounded by natural split pearls. On either side are lucky shamrocks. It was made circa 1900-1910. What a wonderful gift to someone you love. }

An unusual and rare Victorian gold and silver brooch with two enamelled cherubs sitting on clouds in pensive moods.  In between are two rose diamond stars and a larger single diamond. The wings are pave set with rose diamonds. Cherubs often represented children in Victorian symbolism. }

An interesting egg shaped pendant set with three pearls and a small cabochon garnet. It is silver with a light gild on it. It was made circa 1910-1920. }

A stylish silver Victorian collar with a large silver clasp. It was made circa 1880 and has the option of hanging a locket off it which is what these collars were made for originally. }

An unusual Georgian heart shaped brooch that was made circa 1820. It is set with graded natural split pearls and two old mine cut diamonds. Suspended in the middle is a pear shaped foil backed flat cut almandine garnet. This is a rare brooch and in wonderful condition. }

A neat and pretty 15ct gold bracelet that was made in the early 1900s. It is set with four sapphires and three diamonds. It is in excellent condition and easy to wear. }

A fine quality 18ct gold watch with a bow brooch above. It was made circa 1900, and is most probably French made for export as it carries "18K" marks. The deep blue enamel is translucent so that you can see the rays of engine turned engraving beneath. The lyre motif is set with rose diamonds. There are tiny "fleur de lis" applied in gold around the lyre. The bow brooch is also set with rose diamonds and has applied stars within the blue and white enamel. }

A good looking and useful silver necklace with interlinking links. It can be worn daily. }

An unusual Arts and Crafts silver and enamel necklace. It has six oval enamelled panels of stylised fishes with silver drops in between. There is a monogram with either AV or AW on one of the central enamelled plaques. It may be Scottish but has proved hard to research! }

A good example of a crescent brooch that was made circa 1880. It is 18ct gold and set with two and a half carats of good white diamonds. Crescent brooches were traditionally given to a future bride signifying the start of a relationship as that of a crescent or new moon. }

A very pretty 18ct gold and platinum Edwardian bracelet that was made circa 1900-1910. It is set with a natural ruby which is surrounded by natural pearls, with three sections on either side set with a mixture of diamonds and rose diamonds and natural pearls. It is articulated and sits neatly on the wrist. }

A good long seven strand seed pearl necklace with a round gold clasp. The clasp is set with a foil backed cabochon garnet. It is surrounded by split pearls and then a blue and white enamel band. It was made circa 1820 in the Regency period. }

A fine quality platinum and diamond set horse and jockey brooch, retailed by the famous firm, Garrard & Co. of Regent Street, London, who were by Royal Appointment to the Queen. The jockey has been enamelled with the owner's colours so it could well have been a special commission. The diamonds are a mixture of rose cut and old mine cut stones with a small cabochon sapphire for the horse's eye. It is really a miniature work of art and would be a fantastic present to someone in the racing fraternity. }

A classic pair of high carat gold diamond clip-on earrings. They were probably made in Italy in the 1970s and are fantastic quality. They bear the French import mark of the owl which means that they may not be exactly 18ct gold but are pretty near. The French are particularly careful to check the carat of any imported items. The diamonds total 2¼ carats at least and are bright, white stones. }

This silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More collar looks great on the neck. It is a strong look. The square sections are broken up with star designs.}

In Germany Art NouveauJewellery made in the Art Nouveau era (1890-1915). More was known as Jugendstil, this became a major influence on the decorative arts by 1900. In 1907, the Deutscher Warbund was formed to promote an alliance between art and industry. It was a teaching institution started by Van der Velde and Hermann Muthesius, partly inspired by British design developments. Its influence is particularly evident in the mass produced jewellery designs of the company of Theodor Farhner in Pforzhiem, which was the centre of the German jewellery industry between 1900 and 1930. This brooch is from that period and typically Art DecoJewellery made in the Art Deco era (1920-1935). More. It is signed.}

This is a charming small brooch that was made circa 1830. It has two flowers with leaves all set with small old mine cutAn 18th, 19th and early 20th century diamond shape, typically cushion or asymmetrical, marked by a small table, a high crown and a large culet. Culets are the small flat facets at the bottom of a stone which appear to the untrained eye as a hole in the middle of the stone. Before the advent of modern machinery which allows for the precise faceting we see tod... More diamonds in silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More settings. It is a miniature work of art and would have originally been worn on a fichu which is a woman's shawl or scarf of some light material, worn especially in the 18th century and early 19th century}

A beautiful silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More gilt butterfly brooch by David Andersen that was made circa 1950. It has been enamelled in translucent yellow that shows the engraved silver beneath. The body of the butterfly is black enamelA pigmented glass-like material used in powdered form and fused onto the metal surface of a piece of jewellery. More. Andersen opened his shop in Oslo, Norway in 1876 specialising in jewellery and silver wares. He died in 1901 and his sons took over company operations and designs. Today, David-Andersen (the company’s name since the early 20th century) is well known for its mid centuryJewellery made in the Mid-Century era (1950s). More enamelled silver jewellery. This brooch is a good example of the firm’s work and is a lovely little jewel to wear. We have a pair of these butterflies if wanted}

A lovely pair of tortoiseshellAn organic material (not a shell) that is obtained, not from a tortoise, but from the overlapping horny top plates (called 'blades') covering the carapace (upper shell) of certain marine turtles, preferably the hawksbill turtle found of the West Indies and Brazil and the loggerhead turtle found near the Celebes. More drop earrings that are in great condition. They were made circa 1870. When Prince Albert died there was a fashion for black jewellery in sympathy with Queen Victoria’s loss. Many items were produced in Whitby jet and tortoiseshell which at first were plain and then, as the century wore on the items became more decorative and were inlaid with gold and silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More and mother of pearlThe iridescent inner layer of certain molluscs such as oysters or abalones which is used as a decorative inlay. More to lighten the look. These double sided earrings are inlaid with silver and gold beehive and laurel leaf pattern with a flower inlaid in to each top. The ear wires are silver}

This is a wonderful and beautifully modelled brooch of an elephant plodding along that was made circa 1900-1910. It has been set with rose cutThe ‘rose cut’, defined by its rounded outline and multiple triangular facets, is one of the earliest diamond cuts, with its origins in sixteenth century Europe. A rose cut typically has a flat base and anywhere from six to twenty four facets, the latter known as a full rose cut. More diamonds in silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More settings. The reverse is gold. He has a rubyOne of the most valuable gemstones on earth. From the corundum family, the red variety being ruby and the blue, sapphire. With the exception of the diamond, corundum is the hardest of the gemstones on the Mohs scale scoring a 9. More eye with a gold tusk and his trunk is holding a natural pearlA pearl-bearing mollusc that has not been tampered with by man to produce a cultivated pearl will produce a 'natural pearl'. More. His gold saddle has been set with four rubies and an emeraldOne of the four ‘precious’ stones. An intense, deep green is the most desirable colour for emeralds. Flaws and cloudiness (‘jardin’) are very common in emeralds, so stones are often oiled, irradiated, and dyed to improve their look. Synthetic emeralds have fewer imperfections and are hard to set apart from natural stones. Emeralds belong to the beryl... More. The reverse is gold. Elephants hold significant meaning in many cultures and symbols of these majestic creatures have been depicted in mythology and religion for thousands of years. They represent strength and power. They also symbolise sensitivity, wisdom, stability, loyalty, intelligence, peace, reliability and determination, which are all seen in the animal’s nature when observed in the wild. It has a secure roll over catch}

The Ruskin Pottery was an English art pottery studio founded in 1898 by Edward R. Taylor, the first Principal of both the Lincoln School of Art and the Birmingham School of Art. It was named after the artist, writer and social thinker John Ruskin, as the Taylors agreed with, and followed the tenets of Ruskin. The pottery was situated in Smethwick in the West Midlands. The pottery was notable for the innovative glazes used on a range of brightly coloured pots, vases, buttons, bowls, tea services and jewellery. The period in which such work was done was from 1901-1935. The glazes used on the Ruskin Enamels were the standard production ones but also known are examples of flambé enamels. This brooch is a typical example of what they produced and was made circa 1910 }

A sweet silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More bow brooch that was made in the 1920s and has been set with graded marcasiteThe marcasite of jewellery is in fact iron pyrite as marcasite itself is too brittle alone for the durability required of a piece. This jewellery marcasite is sometimes called ‘fool’s gold’ given its heavily metallic appearance. Marcasite of this kind also offers a kind of iridescence, explaining its use as a more affordable diamond replacement that wi... More (iron pyrites) The marcasite glitters like rose diamonds and there is millgrainA technique developed in the late 19th century as a textural effect to metal work on the edges or bezels of jewellery. That technique is referred to as millegrain (or mille grain or even milegrain). From the French word mille for a thousand, and from grain as the same meaning in English, it refers to what appears to be thousands of tiny beads upon a metal pr... More detail throughout. This is an example of the costume jewelleryJewellery designed for wear with current fashions and usually made of inexpensive materials. Usually applied to two classes of jewellery: gem-set imitations, which resemble precious jewellery but are made of silver (sometimes rhodium-coated) or pinchbeck and set with substitutes for gemstones, e.g. marcasite, paste or synthetic gemstones; although usually th... More from the Art DecoJewellery made in the Art Deco era (1920-1935). More period that closely resembled the real thing! It has a secure roll over catch}

A sweet silver brooch that was made in 1864. It features a swallow holding a sprig of ivy. The swallow was considered daring, risk-seeking, and a symbol of change for good in the future. It also meant “Everlasting love” and “loyalty” as swallows mate for life. The message of love is further accentuated by the sprig of ivy that symbolises "Cling to me". What a lovely sentiment to pass on to someone that you love }

A lovely 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold bracelet that was made circa 1900-1914. The links are plain and it is markedA small hallmark or punchmark either on the inside or outside of the shank which indicates the metal is platinum, gold or silver. If the metal is gold, it could also indicate the carat, e.g. 18 carat gold. More on every link 9c for 9ct gold which is a sign of good quality. The padlock hinges open and there is a safety chainA small chain applied to a piece of jewellery with the purpose of adding additional security to prevent loss. On bracelets and necklaces a safety chain will often join the clasp ends should the clasp fail. On a brooch it is often attached to a small pin which is to be used in tandem with the main brooch pin. More for extra security. }

An unusual and very lucky silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More brooch with two horseshoes and a whip. Rose goldA gold of any carat alloyed with copper or copper and silver, to give a pinkish or rosey colour or hue. More overlay has been applied to the roses and their leaves and on the tips of the horseshoes. It was made in Birmingham in 1890. At the time there was a fashion for this time consuming and beautiful work. A lovely brooch to wear whether you are a horse lover or just need a bit of VictorianJewellery made in the the Victorian era (1839-1901). More luck!}

An unusual gilt metal brooch with a double coiled rope design edge that was made circa 1860-1880. It has been set with a glass facetedA faceted stone has small, flat-cut surfaces that make a sparkling effect on transparent stones. Facets act as both mirrors and windows. Reflecting light and channelling light into a stone where it refracts and re-emerges. More plaque with a fine reverse intaglioAn engraved stone, the opposite of a cameo, with a recessed design cut below the surface of the stone. Intaglio designs are common for signet rings and fob seals. More of William Shakespeare. It would most likely have been sold in Stratford Upon Avon as a souvenir }

An unusual pair of silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More gilt drop earrings which are flower shaped and set with Neapolitan coralAn organic gem, calcium carbonate with a trace of carotene, deposited by tiny sea creatures living in the depths of warm seas in huge colonies. It grows in branches that look like underwater trees. Coral is believed to be one of the oldest forms of gemstone jewellery, with some pieces dating back as far as 23,000 BC. More. They were made circa 1880. They have later clip on fittings that can be altered to post and scroll if wanted}

A good long 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold guard chainA long chain from which a key, watch or other object of use is hung. More which has an unusual design. It has smart rectangular sections at intervals and a dog clip so that you can hang items from it. It was made circa 1880. It looks really good when worn as it can be worn double or treble around the neck}

A stylish leaf brooch that has been set with graded marcasiteThe marcasite of jewellery is in fact iron pyrite as marcasite itself is too brittle alone for the durability required of a piece. This jewellery marcasite is sometimes called ‘fool’s gold’ given its heavily metallic appearance. Marcasite of this kind also offers a kind of iridescence, explaining its use as a more affordable diamond replacement that wi... More. It is silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More that has been rhodiumA white metallic element that is part of the platinum group. Because of its hard, reflective finish, it is often used as a plating for jewellery. Similar in look to both white gold and platinum. More plated. It was made in the 1950s and looks great when worn on a lapel. It has a secure roll over catch}

A striking pair of 15ct62.5% pure gold (or 625 parts pure gold and 375 parts other metals). Popular during the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras but was discontinued in the mid-1930s. More gold articulatedWhen something has segments connected by flexible joints. More drop earrings that have been set with kite shaped amethysts with three oval naturalA natural stone is called such because it has not been subjected to any treatments.  More pearls above. They are typical of the 1920s with the geometrically cut stones and the length of the earrings }

A smart pair of 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More yellow gold hoop earrings that were made in the 1980s in Italy. They are a ribbed design with a central line of diamonds within white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More settings. Italian style is so chic and these earrings are no exception. They can be worn day and night.}

A sweet silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More cross that would be ideal as a Christening present}

A decorative brooch that can be worn at any occasion. It has been set with a round cushion cutA square or rectangular cut stone with rounded corners. Also called Antique Cut. More pasteGlass made to resemble gem materials, which may be moulded, faceted, carved, etc.  More in the centre and nine pastes around it with square cut tables. Pastes were often used to imitate diamonds. This brooch was made circa 1860}

These are lovely earrings. They are 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More with 18ct yellow gold on the reverse and have been set with good white brilliant cutA circular gemstone cut, especially for diamonds or other transparent stones, with 57 or 58 facets. This cut returns the greatest amount of brilliancy, fire, and white light to the eye, making it an immensely popular cut. Also known as the Modern Brilliant Cut, the American Brilliant Cut, or the Ideal Cut. More diamonds with a total weight of well over one caratThe unit of weight for a diamond or other gemstone and also for a pearl. Abbreviated 'ct', 1 carat is equal to 0.2 grams. In reference to gold, a unit of purity or fineness of gold and gold alloy, expressed as a number out of 24 parts by weight, e.g. '24 carat' signifies pure gold, '18 carat' 18/24th gold in the alloy, et cetera.  Also abbreviated as 'c... More. The centre stones are larger and very slightly raised so they give the earrings a good profile. The settings are secure clawA precious metal prong used to hold a gemstone in place. More set mounts. They can be worn day and night as they are not too big!}

A pretty silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More brooch in a wreath design with flowers and leaves set with graded marcasiteThe marcasite of jewellery is in fact iron pyrite as marcasite itself is too brittle alone for the durability required of a piece. This jewellery marcasite is sometimes called ‘fool’s gold’ given its heavily metallic appearance. Marcasite of this kind also offers a kind of iridescence, explaining its use as a more affordable diamond replacement that wi... More (iron pyrites) It was made circa 1950 in Europe. It looks lovely when worn on a lapel as the colour beneath will contrast with the silver and glittery marcasite}

A smart 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More Art DecoJewellery made in the Art Deco era (1920-1935). More brooch that was made in the 1920s. It has been set with a line of calibré cut emeralds, diamonds and calibré cut rubies. This style of brooch looks wonderful when worn on a lapel.}

A good unusual pair of 9ct37.5% pure gold (or 375 parts pure gold and 625 parts other metals) More gold Scottish earrings which were made circa 1860-1880. They are set with different coloured agates such as bloodstoneA dark green to dark bluish-green variety of Chalcedony that is splattered with red or brown spots that resemble blood. The extent of the marking varies depending on the stone. Spots are favoured over larger stripes and markings. More and jasperAn opaque variety of Chalcedony and is brown, yellow, or reddish, but may be used to describe other opaque colours like dark or mottled green, orange, and black. Jasper is almost always multicoloured and patterned in a unique way. More. The design is a shield with a crown above and a Maltese cross. Gold Scottish earrings are really hard to find especially in such good condition as these are.}

A pretty platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More chain that was made in the early 1900s. It is a trace link design that is interspersed with six lover's knots. It can be worn on its own or with a pendant}

A smart silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More necklace that was made in the 1930s. Each link has been set with graded marcasiteThe marcasite of jewellery is in fact iron pyrite as marcasite itself is too brittle alone for the durability required of a piece. This jewellery marcasite is sometimes called ‘fool’s gold’ given its heavily metallic appearance. Marcasite of this kind also offers a kind of iridescence, explaining its use as a more affordable diamond replacement that wi... More (iron pyrites) The links are nicely articulatedWhen something has segments connected by flexible joints. More and it sits comfortably on the neck. This necklace has a bracelet to match}

A finely made 14ct58.5% pure gold (or 585 parts pure gold to 415 parts other metals) More white goldWhite gold is an alloy of gold and at least one other white metal - most often nickel or palladium (both of which act as a bleaching agent to reduce the natural yellow colour of the gold). More Art DecoJewellery made in the Art Deco era (1920-1935). More bow brooch with a platinumDerives from the Spanish word 'platina' meaning 'little silver'. Acknowledged since the 1900s, platinum's durability and natural brightness has been and still is today highly treasured A metallic element prized for its rarity, whiteness, high tensile strength and insusceptibility to corrosion, platinum first became widely used in jewellery in the late ninete... More top that was made in the 1920s. It has been set with syntheticA man-made material with essentially the same optical, chemical and physical properties as its natural counterpart, but completely artificial. Commonly used for calibré settings due to the colour matching possibilities. More sapphires and diamonds. It was made by a company called Pistol & Pulker which was run by Franz Pulker and Gustav Pistol. They operated between 1867-1922 in Vienna, Austria. At this time synthetic sapphires were used in a lot of jewellery. In 1902, the French chemist Auguste Verneuil announced a process for producing synthetic rubyOne of the most valuable gemstones on earth. From the corundum family, the red variety being ruby and the blue, sapphire. With the exception of the diamond, corundum is the hardest of the gemstones on the Mohs scale scoring a 9. More crystals. Following this successful process Verneuil focussed his efforts on making synthetic sapphires which he achieved in 1909. Verneuil patented the process of producing synthetic blue sapphires in 1911. They became the rage and were used all over Europe in Art Deco jewels. This bow brooch has been set with a central fifteen pointA unit of weight for a diamond, being one-hundredth of a}

A very pretty 18ct75% pure gold (or 750 parts pure gold and 250 parts other metals) More gold neck chain with that was made circa 1900-1910. It has five sections. Each section has a three leaf clover and one has two three leaf clovers with a small naturalA natural stone is called such because it has not been subjected to any treatments.  More split pearlNatural pearls are an organic gem formed inside live mollusc shells and come in all shapes and sizes. They are formed as the result of a natural irritant within the mollusc's mantle and as a defence, layers of iridescent nacre form over the top of it, creating a pearl.  More in between. It is a delicate and very lovely looking necklace to wear. }

A very striking large silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More butterfly brooch. The wings are well enamelled with yellow edges and turquoiseTurquoise is an opaque gem and is often formed in what is called matrix, a black or brown veining derived from the host rock in which the gem forms.  In fine jewellery, unblemished sky blue turquoise is the ideal, although regularly patterned matrix turquoise is also sought-after. More blue with pale purple spots over an engraved silver base. The main body is green enamelA pigmented glass-like material used in powdered form and fused onto the metal surface of a piece of jewellery. More with black eyes. It was made circa 1920-1930.}

This is a charming pendant that was made circa 1900-1910. It takes the form of a witch's heart with stylised stems, a leaf set with graded diamonds and a flower head set with an aquamarineAquamarine (from the Latin, “water from the sea”) is, as the name suggests, a pale green bluish to medium dark blue member of the beryl family. Due to its lovely, limpid color and its durability aquamarine has been one of the most popular gemstones from ancient times to the present day. 7.5 - 8 on the Mohs scale. The birthstone of March and 19th year ann... More. It has a diamondA precious, lustrous gemstone made of highly compressed carbon. Diamonds are one of the hardest materials known to mankind. Colours of diamonds range from colourless, yellow, orange and brown to almost black. Natural coloured (or ‘fancy’) diamonds can be extremely rare. The cut, colour, clarity and carat weight of a diamond are the criteria jewellers use... More set baleA component of certain types of jewellery, mostly necklaces, that is used to attach a pendant or stone.  The bail is normally placed in the centre of the necklace where the pendant hangs. More so that it can be worn as a pendant, but there is also a brooch fitting so it can be worn as a brooch too. The front is silverA metallic element which is malleable and ductile, and white in colour, making it ideal for use in jewellery. It is usually mixed with copper to improve its hardness. More and the reverse is 15ct62.5% pure gold (or 625 parts pure gold and 375 parts other metals). Popular during the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras but was discontinued in the mid-1930s. More gold. It has long been a tradition for lovers to gift each other with witch’s hearts as love tokens to symbolise that they have been “bewitched” with love. It is typical of the Art NouveauJewellery made in the Art Nouveau era (1890-1915). More period with the flowing naturalA natural stone is called such because it has not been subjected to any}

A charming hand painted porcelain cherub sealA stone or metal plaque carved with an image (an intaglio) but with design reversed so that it is readable when impressed in wax. More. He is wearing a green sash with arrows for oars. There is a circle of gold at the base set with a carnelian​A translucent red variety of chalcedony which in its turn is a form of cryptocrystalline quartz. ​Carnelian has​ been known and used since antiquity when it was sourced from the surfaces of the Egyptian and Arabian deserts. The ​most prized carnelian has a true blood-red color. More. It is hard to give an exact date of when this was made but I would say around 1860-1880}