Large Diamond Brooch ‘Swallow’, ca. 1880 Victorian

Large Diamond Brooch ‘Swallow’ circa 1880 Victorian A sparkling, breathtaking and exceptionally well-crafted antique bird brooch depicting a graceful swallow with forked tail feathers in flight. Set with a captivating red ruby eye of approx. 0.09 ct and pavé-set with 254 diamonds in old mine and old European cuts, including 44 rose-cut diamonds, totalling approx. 16–18 ct, the body is 925 blackened silver, in 14 K rose gold brooch, with a screw for removal. 37.1 g   Dimensions: 11 x 6 x 1.5 cm Hallmarks: None Stock number: 2182   This large, truly magnificent bird brooch with its entire body glittering white in the light and is such an elegant design. Swallows are a symbol of devotion (loyalty), distance and its love of freedom, and the cyclical nature of life, the swallow bird mates for life and always returns to its familiar nest to begin life anew. Despite these unbelievably long travel distances, the birds are able to navigate their way back home. As such these birds often featured on sweetheart brooches – brooches given by a soldier to his wife or girlfriend as he was leaving for service, particularly during World War One. Swallows are a powerful reminder carrying the messages of hope, renewal, and fidelity. Women wore them as a constant reminder of their loved one, and as a supportive token that their partner would return home safely. With its wings set to soar, this stunning brooch captures a breathtaking bird in flight.