Details
A stunning late 20th Century vintage swallow brooch, expertly crafted in warm 18ct yellow gold and built around a spectacular natural opal, custom-cut and bezel set in the centre to complement the swallow’s sleek form. It weighs approx. 3.8 carats and is illuminated by electric neon greens and cool blues, with delicate flashes of fiery orange. Brilliant cut diamonds also shimmer across the wings and tail, while a vivid pink ruby forms the eye.
Swallows have long represented everlasting love, loyalty, joy, and safe return, owing to their reputation for mating for life and always returning faithfully to their nests. Particularly cherished during the Victorian era, swallow jewellery was often exchanged as a romantic token between loved ones separated by travel or long journeys, with kaleidoscopic opals used to express passion, hope, and the full spectrum of emotion.
This fabulous Victorian-revival swallow brooch features a truly one-of-a-kind natural opal at its heart and is complete with a secure safety lock catch and a safety chain for peace of mind when worn. It would make a meaningful gift or a standout addition to any vintage jewellery collection.
WEIGHT: 8.2 grams
MEASURES: Height 27mm x Width 53mm x Depth 6mm – Chain Length 65mm
METAL: Yellow Gold (Stamped 18ct)
STONES: Natural Opal (19.5 x 9.5mm, approx. 3.8ct), Diamonds (approx. 0.07ct total), Ruby (approx. 0.01ct)
AGE: Circa 1960 - 1970
MARKS: 750/ 18K stamp
CONDITION: Excellent, wear commensurate with age.
ITEM NUMBER: CAT061502
