Antique French Diamond Crescent Moon Brooch

Reflecting the tastes of the 19th century high society, wealthy clients often favored a few highly sophisticated jewels over many separate pieces. They commissioned designs that could be reconfigured for different occasions. This versatile piece was created to be worn in multiple ways such as a as a hair ornament, tiara, pendant, or as a mounted element within a larger parure, and retains its original removable fittings on the reverse. This celestial French crescent moon brooch is crafted in silver-topped 18k gold and set with approximately 5 carats of old-cut diamonds. The moon features a striking double-row design, with graduated inner and outer bands of individually hand-faceted diamonds, producing a soft, romantic shimmer rather than the sharper scintillation of modern cuts. C1880 Diamonds: estimated 5 carats of elongated old mine, Swiss, single and rose cut diamonds Measurements: 1 5/16" x 1 5/16" Weight: 9.4 grams Condition notes: Missing one tiny rose cut diamond Markings: partial maker's mark, French horse head hallmark for 18K gold, numbered 62 on c-clasp