Step into the elegance of the Belle Époque with this Exquisite Edwardian Butterfly Brooch, a true masterpiece of antique entomology jewelry. Masterfully crafted in 18k yellow gold and topped with platinum, this piece features a rare and vibrant combination of demantoid garnets, rubies, and old cut diamonds that bring this winged beauty to life. This brooch is a collector’s dream, showcasing the delicate "light as air" aesthetic that defined the Edwardian era. The use of Demantoid Garnets—the rarest and most prized of all garnets—provides a vivid "horsetail" green sparkle that perfectly mimics the iridescent nature of a butterfly’s wings.
A Kaleidoscope of Antique Gemstones
Vibrant Demantoid Garnets: The lower wings are set with stunning green demantoid garnets, world-renowned for their high dispersion and fiery brilliance.
Rich Natural Ruby: The body features a natural ruby, providing a royal contrast to the verdant garnets and shimmering diamonds.
Antique Old Cut Diamonds: The wings are encrusted with hand-faceted old cut diamonds, offering that soft, romantic glow unique to the turn of the century.
Exquisite Edwardian Craftsmanship
Platinum over 18k Gold: In classic Edwardian fashion, the diamonds and garnets are set in a fine layer of platinum to enhance their white brilliance, while the underside and pin are crafted in rich 18k yellow gold.
Intricate Pierced Openwork: The wings feature delicate, lace-like openwork and "milgrain" beaded edges, a testament to the incredible hand-skills of early 20th-century jewelers.
Articulated Detail: From the tiny demantoid "eyes" to the delicate gold antennae, every anatomical detail is rendered with lifelike precision.
Technical Specifications
Metal: 18k Yellow Gold topped with Platinum. The brooch weighs 11.37g. It measures 1.5" across at the widest and is 1 1/8" tall.
Gemstones: Natural Demantoid Garnets, Ruby, and Old Cut Diamonds. The demantoids measure 2.0mm. The ruby measures about 4.5mm x 4mm. The diamonds range in size from 1.3mm at the inside of the wings to 2.5mm on the outer wings and the body. The estimated diamond carat weight is approximately 2.00cttw.
Style: Edwardian Butterfly / Insect Brooch
Era: Edwardian (Circa 1901–1910)
Closure: Traditional Pin with C-Clasp
Perfect For
The Serious Collector: A rare addition to any collection of high-end antique insect or Edwardian jewelry.
The Nature Lover: A sophisticated way to wear a piece of art inspired by the natural world.
A Wedding Heirloom: A stunning "something old" to be pinned to a bridal bouquet or worn on a lace gown.
