French Early 20th Century 18ct Gold and Platinum Gem-Set Bar Brooch Trio

A striking French trio of early 20th century bar brooches, dating to circa 1900–1910. Two are set in 18ct gold with rubies and vivid green demantoid garnets, while the third is set in platinum with diamonds. Demantoid garnet is one of the rarest and most sought-after varieties of garnet. First discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in 1868, it was celebrated for its remarkable brilliance and fire, with the name “demantoid” meaning diamond-like. Together, the colours green, white and red immediately invite symbolism. They may echo the flags of Italy or Hungary, suggesting a possible patriotic or continental meaning. It is also tempting to consider a Suffragette connection. In British jewellery, green, white and violet were associated with the women’s suffrage movement: green for “Give”, white for “Women” and violet for “Votes.” Red is sometimes described as Vermilion, ruby for “Votes”, although violet is the better-known Suffragette colour. As this is a French jewel with french hallmark and retailed by Ch. Dubret of Dijon and Paris, it should not be described definitively as Suffragette without further provenance Beyond their colour, each gemstone carries its own meaning. Rubies, July's birthstone, symbolise passion and courage; diamonds, April's birthstone, represent strength and enduring love; while the rare demantoid garnets (members of the garnet family) are the January's birthstone were treasured for their extraordinary brilliance and associated with hope, prosperity and good fortune.. A beautifully unusual and versatile trio of French bar brooches, rich in colour, rarity and possible meaning.