Antique Georgian brooch with locket at the back. Gold, pearls, miniature painting. Made in England, United Kingdom late 18th to early 19th century.
Suitable for a man or a woman.

Measurements: Weight is 7.2 grams. Diameter approximately 7/8 inch (2.3cm).

Description : Round brooch made of gold with an outer border of small pearls. Pearls are well matched and in good condition.
Within is a miniature portrait of an eye. It is the Right eye looking to the side. We see a few tufts of brown curls as well as a delicately arched brown eyebrow. Eye is bright blue. Painting is well done and clear.
During this period, it became fashionable for lovers to give gifts of their eye portraits to one another. The idea was that only the wearer would know the identity of the person represented. In this way, they could carry a representation of their loved one without compromising anyone. The fashion was set by the Regent, the future King George IV, so even then, it was often men who wore these brooches.
The back of the brooch has a glassed compartment that could contain a locket of the loved one's hair.
This is a particularly well painted and well preserved example. The c-catch to a simple hinged pin, which has been replaced probably during the Victorian period.
Very personal, romantic and sentimental - to this day, we feel the romance and love attached to this brooch. Unique and special.

Marks and Metal: No marks as is to be expected. We electronically tested the gold, which varies between 12-14k. It was common for gold from this period to be less homogenous. We will guarrantee at least 12k to err on the side of caution. The pin is not gold.

Condition: Good with minor wear commensurate with age. Portrait and pearls in fine shape considering their age. See comments about replaced pin. Pearls have not been tested. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.