Late Victorian 18 Carat Gold, Diamond, Sapphire and Ruby Dragonfly Brooch

Circa 1900, a Victorian dragonfly brooch in 18 carat rose gold with silver topped wings, lavishly set with a scatter of old cut and rose cut diamonds. A vivid sapphire forms the body, with two small rubies picked out as eyes, and fine openwork gives the wings a light, floating look despite the sparkle. It sits neatly on the collar or lapel, catching light with every turn, a tiny creature of evening air made in precious materials.

Condition
Very good condition

Country of origin
Although the jewel bears French hallmarks, its exact origin is unknown. For an explanation, see the section on hallmarks.

Period
Circa 1900

Material
18 carat rose gold and details in silver (touchstone tested)

Diamonds
Fifteen old brilliant cut diamonds with an estimated weight of ± 1.40 carats, colour and clarity H/L, VS/I 
32 rose cut diamonds and senailles. A senaille is a simplified rose cut diamond, a small diamond chip with perhaps a few polished facets. We do not have the weight of the rose cuts diamonds nor the senailles which is normal in our trade when it comes to rose cut diamonds and senailles.
- When we provide weights, colour grades, and clarity of diamonds, these are approximate unless otherwise stated, as we do not remove diamonds from their settings to preserve the integrity of the piece. 
- Verified as 100% natural by the IJGC laboratory.

Precious stones
One sapphire with an estimated weight of ± 0.30 carat
Two natural (?) rubies
Colour stone weights are approximate since stones are not removed from their mounts to preserve the integrity of the setting. 
It is a very common practice to treat gemstones to intensify their clarity or colour. The item in question has not been tested in this regard.

Hallmarks
Although it carries typical French control marks representing a swan and an owl, we cannot be sure it is actually French as the owl was also used for items in finished condition that were brought to be examined by the French Assay office (the eagle’s head was used for items brought in unfinished).

Dimensions
3.83 cm (1.51 inch) x 3.24 cm (1.28 inch)

Weight
8.20 grams (5.27 dwt)