Vintage 18ct Gold Red Enamel & Diamond Butterfly Brooch

A charming vintage butterfly brooch in 18ct gold, the wings worked in rich red and brown basse-taille enamel over engine-turned gold, giving a warm, shaded depth to the colour. The wing borders and slender body are set with diamonds in white gold, with a collet-set diamond to each wing and a further diamond to the body, while fine curled antennae complete the form. The enamel is in excellent order throughout, retaining full colour and lustre.

The butterfly has always been one of the most joyful motifs in jewellery, a symbol of transformation and lightness, and this is a generous, characterful example — the enamel bright, the diamonds lively, and the whole brooch a real pleasure worn on a lapel or collar.

Details

• Metal: 18ct gold (XRF tested), with diamonds set in white gold
• Stones: diamonds to each wing and the body, collet- and pavé-set
• Design: enamelled butterfly with basse-taille wings
• Enamel: red and brown over engine-turned gold, in excellent condition
• Fittings: C-catch and pin to the reverse
• Dimensions: 28mm x 28mm
• Condition: Good, with wear consistent with age; enamel excellent
• Era: Vintage, mid-20th century
• Weight: 8.6g