This exceptionally beautiful 'bow' brooch was made during the Art Deco period and has been set with diamonds and black onyx. The handmade platinum frame takes the form of a delicate bow which has been set with 48 old European cut diamonds graded between G and H in colour and SI in clarity totalling 2.10 carat. To add to the Art Deco flair of the piece it has been further set with 43 baguette cut pieces of black onyx, a very popular accompaniment to diamonds in Deco jewellery. To the rear the piece is finished with a hinged pin and 'C' type catch with safety closure, ensuring the piece stays firmly attached to a garment. The brooch retains what we believe to be its original retailing box from Johnson, Walker & Tolhurst who operated from Conduit Street in London. The firm was founded in 1849 and counted Winston Churchill and Indian Maharajas among their clientele. The piece likely dates to the 1930s and presents in good condition, however has been worn throughout its life and several of the onyx pieces have cracks or chips, along with a single diamond showing a chip. These imperfections are not noticeable unless very closely inspected and are commensurate with age and use. This is perhaps the most exquisite Art Deco bow brooch we have had and is bound to be an elegant addition to an evening gown or black jacket.
Marked - unmarked but tests as platinum
Measures - 7cm in length
Total diamond weight - 2.10 carat
Total weight of piece - 9.41 grams
Independent appraisal values the piece at $9400.