Victorian 9 ct gold and seed pearl sweetheart brooch

This lovely 9ct gold brooch dates from the late Victorian or early Edwardian period. It is stamped 9ct and was probably made in New Zealand but i haven't been able to identify the maker's mark. Simple elegant brooches like this one were popular romantic gifts during the period and are part of the tradition of sweetheart brooches. The brooch is in a crescent moon form with an ivy leaf studded with seed pearls. 

During the Victorian period there was a rich vein of symbolism that was widely understood and drawn upon in many facets of life. It is very prominent in the jewellery of the period. The moon in any form is considered to be feminine, an empowering symbol that represents female influence, intuition and kindness as well as the power that women wield throughout the world. Crescent moons have been worn by lovers for centuries because they're believed to signify love and fertility. While the ivy leaf symbolises everlasting love, immortality, and fidelity. It is often seen etched into wedding bands or lockets, ivy leaf pieces were common as wedding gifts or even as gifts amongst close friends who wished to show their devotion to the one another. 

The antique box and other antique elements in the photographs are not included, but I hope to make some of these items available in the future.

Our jewellery photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show you every tiny detail. Any blemishes are greatly magnified and typically they aren’t noticeable to the naked eye.

Please look closely at the photographs as they form part of the description and please get in touch if you have any questions.