Superb Antique Australian 15ct Gold Australian Shell Insect Brooch Circa 1880-1890
This intricately designed piece showcases a detailed 15ct gold structure resembling an insect, with Tasmanian Trigonia shells serving as its wings and garnet or paste stones (not tested) for its eyes.
Trigonia shells exhibit a unique iridescence with concentric ridges on their surface. Also referred to as Neotrigonia (Brooch shell), these shells are limited to two species in Tasmania and a few others exclusively found in Australia. While they are occasionally found on sandy beaches, they thrive at depths of 30–60 meters.
During the Archaeological Revival era (19th-century English and Australian jewellers), these shells were a favored material for crafting jewellery due to their naturalistic appearance. Collectors with an interest in entomology will appreciate the subject choice.
This antique piece is in outstanding condition, considering the delicate nature of the shells. The attention to detail is remarkable, with the insect's body featuring lifelike characteristics such as antennae, hind legs, and forelegs, all finished with a distinct 'brush stroke' texture.
Complete with its original safety chain, pin, and C clasp, the item bears Australian hallmarks, including an indistinct maker's mark, '15' indicating 15ct gold, and the 'hanging fleece' symbol representing the M.J.A Victoria guarantee mark for 15ct gold.
This early Australian jewellery piece is exceptionally captivating and highly sought-after, as items of this caliber in such excellent antique condition are rarely presented to the market.
STONES
Garnet or paste stones, not tested
MEASUREMENTS
3.5cm x 3.5cm
WEIGHT
5.35 Grams
MARKS
Australian hallmarks, makers mark indistinct, ’15’ for 15ct and ‘hanging fleece’ M.J.A of Victoria guarantee mark for 15ct gold
CONDITION
Excellent antique condition. No chips or damage to Trigonia shells. Gold is lovely, a definite aged patina we will not clean! Original safety chain and pin. C clasp is original no repairs. Pin is original - silver - typical for this era. An amazing piece surviving in incredible condition.
Please note boxes are for display only unless otherwise stated.
Laybys & Hold Policy
Do you have your eye on a fabulous piece but need some extra time to
pay? At Graisons, we offer suitable layby terms for pieces priced $400 AUD and above. Contact us for more details.
Purchase Guide & Refund Policy
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Shipping & Delivery
Free Complimentary Express Shipping: Australia & Select International Countries.
We are pleased to offer free complimentary express postage, fully insured with tracking and signature on delivery using Australia Post.
For all international purchases, a third party postal company will complete the final stage of delivery.
Orders are dispatched within one-two business days of purchase. Once complete, a tracking number will be forwarded to you via email notification.
We are currently shipping to the following international countries:
UK, USA, CANADA, SINGAPORE, NEW ZEALAND, HONG KONG.
PLEASE NOTE: Any duties imposed by countries for importing our items are the buyers responsibility. Please contact your local customs agency if you wish to discuss potential rates and fees.
Caring For Antique & Vintage Jewellery
We absolutely pride ourselves on sourcing the best quality pieces for our customers, with many of our items valued by our registered jeweller/gemologist.
Our collection consists of pieces that are of antique and vintage condition, which means that all our items are secondhand and used. Customers are not purchasing 'new', 'perfect' and 'unworn items', and as such, should expect wear and imperfection. Any condition issues are always extensively mentioned in the condition summary.
Please do not hesitate to ask questions prior to purchase. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to ensure that these descriptions and pictures are carefully viewed and any questions are asked prior to the transaction taking place.
Please refer to our guide, Caring For Antique & Vintage Jewellery for more details.
Your Purchase: What Is Included?
Your purchase will be lovingly packaged in our custom made, eco-friendly Graisons Fine Jewellery Jewel box tied with ribbon inside our custom made packaging/mailing box.
For added safety and security, all purchases are shipped inside an Australia Post medium sized mailing box.
If your item includes an independent valuation, the physical certificate will be included.
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