Details
An extraordinary antique Victorian Scottish plaid brooch, centred by a monumental oval citrine, or Cairngorm quartz, weighing an estimated 100 carats. The magnificent golden gemstone is elevated within a coronet gallery and encircled by a scalloped silver frame, exquisitely hand-engraved with flowing foliate scrollwork. The reverse retains its substantial original period tube hinge, extended pin and classic C-clasp.
Dating to the romantic 19th-century Highland Craze, inspired by Queen Victoria’s devotion to Balmoral, such brooches were designed to secure heavy clan tartan at the shoulder. Revered as a symbol of warmth, joy and prosperity, the golden Cairngorm evokes the radiant Scottish sun breaking through the mist of the Highlands, embodying centuries of Celtic romance and folklore.
In excellent condition, the brooch is accompanied by an antique green velvet-and-silk fitted leather presentation box, bearing the name of renowned Glasgow jewellers Muirhead & Arthur. A remarkable and increasingly rare survivor, this museum-quality jewel represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire an authentic piece of Scotland’s rich Victorian heritage.
WEIGHT: 46.7 grams
MEASURES: Height 50mm x Width 58mm x Depth 14mm
METAL: Silver
STONES: Natural Citrine/ Quartz (33 x 41mm, approx. 100ct)
AGE: Victorian. (Circa 1880)
MARKS: No marks, typical for items made before hallmarking legislation was introduced.
CONDITION: Excellent, wear commensurate with age.
ITEM NUMBER: 27-029
