Please note, boxes are for display only unless otherwise stated.

This superb antique 9-carat yellow gold mother-of-pearl brooch is a truly special piece — both for its beauty and its fascinating provenance. 

Crafted by the early Australian jeweller ‘PERRY’, this brooch is believed to be the work of S. I. Perry of Church Street, Parramatta, New South Wales, who was active in the late 19th to early 20th century. Though little is known about this maker, his work is now recognised as part of Australia’s early jewellery heritage.

Adding to its significance, this very brooch is documented in the important reference book Australian Jewellers: Gold and Silversmiths, Makers and Marks by Kenneth Cavill, Graham Cocks, and Jack Grace (1992), appearing on page 298, plate 347 — a rare honour for any piece of antique Australian jewellery.

The brooch itself is a captivating work of art, featuring a large, naturally shaped mother-of-pearl panel with an attached spherical seed Pearl, set within a finely detailed ropework border and framed in rich yellow gold. The organic form of the mother-of-pearl has been cleverly chosen and carved to suggest a stylised fish or sea creature, its iridescent surface shimmering with soft pink and golden tones as it catches the light.

Measuring 3.9 cm by 3.0 cm, this is a substantial and eye-catching piece, complete with its original pin, C-clasp, and safety chain. It remains in excellent antique condition — smooth, luminous, and full of character.

A rare and exciting find for serious collectors, this brooch beautifully represents the artistry of Australia’s early goldsmiths.  It’s not only a stunning piece of jewellery but also a tangible piece of Australian history, documented in the go to ‘bible’ of Australian jewellery makers and marks.

STONES
Natural Mother of Pearl / and one cultured Pearl

MEASUREMENTS
3.9cm x 3.0cm

WEIGHT
9.55 Grams

MARKS
‘PERRY’ for we believe S.I PERRY - Church Street Parramatta NSW
Scant information available in the literature

ERA
Early 20th century 

CONDITION
Excellent antique condition.  A superb piece by one of our lesser know Australian jewellers.  Mother of Pearl is in excellent conduit. No issues.  The gold work/ropework is stunning, no issues.  Pin and clasp are of course original and are in perfect working order.  Safety pin and chain in excellent condition also.  No issues to note.