Georgian / Early Victorian Cut Steel Butterfly Brooch

Wonderful and early example of ‘cut-steel’ for all you collectors out there!

Fashioned as a butterfly, this piece epitomises the early laborious technique of hand-riveteted and hand cut faceted and polished studs first made in England around the 1650’s in it’s believed either Woodstock Oxon or Clerkenwell in London and became the height of fashion in the 18th and 19th centuries.
So much so that Emperor Napolean Bonaparte commissioned a parure of cut-steel jewellery for Marie-Louise upon the marriage in Paris 1810.
These pieces were developed at a time before electricity and were designed to imitate the sparkle of diamonds in candle, sun and moonlight as they reflect perfectly!
Measuring 4.5cm x 3.5cm, she’s just the rich size in our opinion.
With original C clasp and pin, in untouched original condition this would make a lovely addition to any collection.
STONES
Cut-steel
MEASUREMENTS
4.5cm x 3.5cm
WEIGHT
11.39 Grams
CONDITION
Very good original antique condition, natural uncleaned patina with no evidence or rust.
C-clasp original and no evidence of replacement or re-soldering

Purchase Summary

All our items are antique or vintage unless otherwise stated. Condition will be described, it is the responsibility of the buyer to read and view photos.

Prior to purchase, please view our Purchase Guide & Return Policy. All purchases within Australia will be sent via express post as a complimentary service.International rates apply.  Please view our Shipping & Delivery Policy for more details.

Please note: any duties imposed by countries for importing our items are the buyers responsibility




Collections: Sold Archive


Welcome to Graisons!

Hello and welcome to Graisons Fine Jewellery!

Shop our Jewel Drop: Saturday 10th of June, 9:30 am AEST.

Sign up to our Graisons Fine Jewellery mailing list below to be the first to preview new arrivals, invites to exclusive sale events and more!