A heavenly jewel 💙🌙 “I love you to the moon and back” is the sentiment in this beautifully crafted antique pendant and brooch. Celestial themed jewels have always been popular, but were especially so during the late Victorian and the Edwardian eras. These tokens were popularly given by a groom to his bride as a honeymoon gift, and then worn with affection in the years that followed. This example can be worn as a pendant or as a brooch.
This sweet crescent and moon is of particular note for being made by one of Australian’s early manufacturing jewellers Duggin, Schappere & Co. of Melbourne who traded from1896 -1932. I estimate this piece to be circa 1910.
Turquoise is a birthstone for the month of December which is why I’ve called this piece December Moon.
Manufacture:
Modelled in 15ct gold, with the exception of the pin. The Anchor hallmark used by early Australian jewellers Duggin, Schappere & Co can be seen on the reverse, along with the 15 and fleece fineness marks used by the Manufacturing Jewellers Association of Victoria.
This piece has been painstakingly hand assembled. Each of the graduating seed pearls is securely bead set and all stones appear to be original to the piece – a little miracle in itself. The sides feature an ornate openwork gallery, and the interior of the moon is filled with golden scrolls decorated with tiny milgrain detailing.
All of the pearls are lovely and white with a full coat of nacre – evidence that this piece has been treasured and cared for. The blue stones are natural robin’s egg blue turquoise cabochons, also in perfect condition.
The reverse has a hook on the back of the star allowing the jewel to be worn as a pendant or enhancer. A brooch pin with c-clasp is also present and in good working order.
Measures 24.86mm x 25.5mm x 5.6mm not including the pun and clasp.
Weighs 3.91 grams.
Condition:
In very good antique condition, ready for immediate wear. The only fault to note is that two small gold solders where the points of the star meet the crescent have broken at some point. The remaining solders are all very secure and there is no risk to the jewel. This small defect can only be seen under magnification and should be considered commensurate with age and use.
** Please note the chain is not included, but should you need one we would be most happy to help source something suitable for you. Please get in touch to discuss.
An early Australian crescent moon and star pendant brooch by Duggin, Schappere & Co. of Melbourne, circa 1910. Modelled in 15ct yellow gold and set with split seed pearls and natural turquoise cabochons. Can be worn as a pendant, enhancer or brooch.
Measures 24.86mm x 25.5mm x 5.6mm not including the pun and clasp.
Weighs 3.91 grams.
