Exceptional Arts and Crafts Moonstone Brooch c.1900 Silver set with 6 Large Cabochon Moonstones
A truly stunning handmade Arts and Crafts silver brooch, designed as a sprig of flowers on textured branches set with six large cabochon natural moonstones. Consisting of a a main stem, slightly textured to resemble plant branches, to which the pin and closure are attached, terminating in a group of 3 cabochon moonstones as flowers or berries, the largest 18 mm x 12mm x 6mm, with a textured repousse silver leaf to the left, and a further slightly smaller 3 moonstone flower mounted on a textured silver side stem to the right. The moonstones are set into unbacked mounts, bezel set, pinched attractively into place, and show a good amount of pale blue adularescence when they catch the light, making this a very attractive piece. The stones are each cut to maximise the size and have slightly organic shapes, each one being different and full of character. When held up to the light, the stones are completely clear, it is when the light hits at an angle that the magic happens and then you see the beautiful silvery play of light across the stones, with a heavenly blue showing on each stone also, when the light is right. Because the stones vary in size, depth and placement, there are often varying effects to be seen at the same time, with some stones silvered while the others gleam blue. It is simply a wonderful piece.
What marks this brooch out from the rest is the weight, size, and quality finish to the work. The piece is 8cm long by 6cm wide, and weighs in at 22.2g. The maker has certainly not held back on materials - the moonstones are good quality, flawless and of good size and excellent condition, with no damage, the silver mount is substantial, and probably the reason the stones remain in good condition. The work is not overcomplicated, but nicely executed, very cleanly finished and one feels that the jeweller had a clear design in mind which he has followed throughout to this stunning conclusion.
We have tried to capture the beauty of the moonstones in the pictures. Please examine the pics to see exact condition detail, but generally excellent, with the moonstones in super condition, and the pin, hinges and closure all working perfectly with no issues.
Length 8cm x 6cm
Weight 22.2g
Natural Moonstone Cabochons
Unmarked (tested) Sterling Silver
Price includes free first class signed-for postage