9ct gold antique brooch featuring three swallows - Chester 1912/3

One of the many things I love about antique jewellery is the rich symbolism each piece contains. This lovely 9ct gold brooch features three swallows set with tiny seed pearls. The swallow was a popular romantic motif in antique jewellery symbolising loyalty, devotion and the return of a loved one. Swallows known for their devotion to their mates, were also believed to lead ships home when they were getting close to land, preventing them from being lost. 

It is in excellent condition with pearl still in place, which is sadly often not the case. They are depicted on a curved bar or branch and the safety chain, a common feature at the time, is present. The safety chain as the name suggests gives you an extra layer of security that if the main pin slips from the c clasp the brooch is still attached via the smaller safety pin attachment. While it is clearly hallmarked for Chester in 1912/3, the maker's mark is not clear enough for definitive identification.