Antique Victorian Scottish Agate & Jasper Pebble Brooch, Slate Base

A wonderful Scottish agate and jasper circular (aka 'target') brooch from the early Victorian era, c1850! The lovely hand wrought piece is made of sterling silver and white metal back frame. The eye is drawn to the gorgeous array of natural earth mined hardstones which were likely sourced from the bonnie Scottish mountains in the 19th century! Also known as jaspagates, the array of warm autumnal hue's include, cream, beige, reddish brown and green (which is bloodstone), and each are matched opposite one another. The high polished hardstones are individual tear dome cabochon's, and each piece is hand grinded and shaped to fit perfectly snug like a jigsaw. A sterling silver rounded ring with a hand engraved leaf decoration embellishes the centre, adding further character to this charming Victorian piece! Four little shaped claws are interspaced around the scalloped edge of the piece, giving additional design. The hardstones are mounted to black slate which was often used in the earlier examples of pebble jewellery - it was readily available, and was also often sourced from within Scotland. A white metal wire frame with pin and c-clasp finishes the piece.

Scottish agate jewellery was made popular again in the nineteenth century due to Queen Victoria adorning Scottish jewellery and her frequent visits to her Scottish Castle Balmoral. For more information on Antique Scottish Jewellery head to the blog - Antique Scottish Jewellery

A beautiful example of early Victorian Scottish pebble jewellery, and a piece which would add a stunning addition to todays apparel!