Antique French 18K, Silver & Diamond Crescent Brooch

Celestial jewelry first gained popularity thanks to the discovery of Halley’s comet, by astronomer Sir Edmond Halley all the way back in 1682. He correctly predicted the comet would return in 1758, then again in 1835. To prepare for the comet's arrival in the 1800’s, late-Georgian/ early Victorian women sought out comet-themed brooches in gold and diamonds or silver and paste.

The celestial jewelry craze did not pass with Halley’s comet. Throughout the Victorian era, stars were carved into gemstones or used as the base shape for brooches and hair ornaments. Stars and crescent moons were fashioned out of pearls, opals, rubies, diamonds and other hard stones.

During the reign of King Edward VII in the early 1900’s, Queen Alexandra generously adorned her outfits with many star and crescent jewels.

Another trend during the Victorian era was for young brides to wear crescent moon brooches given by their husbands. The trinkets symbolized the new marriage, referring to the 'honeymoon' they would enjoy after the wedding!

More than 100 years later moon, star and sun designs remain popular in all jewelry categories, from fashion to fine. For almost as long as we’ve been studying the stars, we’ve been adorning ourselves with their glimmering likeness.

This beautiful French crescent brooch is crafted in 18 karat yellow gold, with three graduated rows of gleaming diamonds set in silver. The openwork frame gives a lacy, ethereal feel to the piece, perfect for your fanciest dress or your next black tie event!

To give this piece a modern twist, a bale can be added to wear as a pendant. Please email us for more information.

Details (approximate)

Dimensions: 1.5"

Materials: Gold, Silver, Diamond

Metal: 18K yellow gold; Silver

Marks: None

Condition: Excellent Antique condition commensurate with age and wear