TWO LATE 19TH CENTURY NOVELTY BROOCHES, CIRCA 1880

One brooch designed as a swallow bird in flight with its wings stretched, embellished with carved moonstone plaques and cabochon, accented with...

TWO LATE 19TH CENTURY NOVELTY BROOCHES, CIRCA 1880

One brooch designed as a swallow bird in flight with its wings stretched, embellished with carved moonstone plaques and cabochon, accented with rose-cut diamonds and ruby cabochons for eyes, mounted in silver and gold, width 3.8cm; Together with a bar brooch, the newly hatched baby chick embellished with rose-cut diamonds and ruby cabochon eye between white enamel egg shells, mounted in silver and gold, width 4.5cm

 

Swallows are birds which are known for their fierce loyalty, mating for life and returning to their nests even after long journey’s away. As migratory birds they travel great distances each September to warmer shores and return to cooler climates in the summer. As symbols, these qualities of the swallow have been used to signify enduring love and constancy. They appear quite frequently in jewellery items, often as wedding gifts, to young couples as a mark of faithfulness.

They also bear particular importance for seafarers, especially in the Victorian period when such enterprises of fishermen and sailors carried significant danger. Swallows’ incredible ability to always find their way back to their nests has led them to be thought of as a signal that land was nearby or have given rise to legends that they could guide ships to a safe harbour. They were often gifted to loved ones about to embark on a long journey to carry with them as talismans’ and bring them home free from harm.   

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