Iridescent insects were imported en masse from South America to satisfy England's obsession with an ancient Egyptian motif: the scarab beetle. Real scarab beetles (aka dung beetles) look nothing like these shiny green guys, but no big deal to the to Egyptophile who wore this pin. Authenticity wasn't top of mind; vibes were. This insect is perfectly preserved in its 100+ year old gold setting - and it comes in its original leatherette box.
thedetails
- Materials
9k gold (marked), beetle, original leatherette box
- Age
Chester assay marks for 1922
- Condition
Very good
- Size
1 1/2"
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Aboutthe
Art DecoEra
1915 — 1940
Motifs like ziggurats and sunbursts, stripped of visual clutter, conveyed the optimism of an increasingly technological world. In jewelry, the predominant use of white metals let colorful gems take center stage. Stones that were opaque and true in color, like lapis lazuli, onyx, jade, coral, and opal were worked into designs alongside more precious and brilliant gems, like diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Extra-long beaded necklaces and tasseled “sautoirs” followed the narrow flapper silhouette. The baguette cut was an Art Deco innovation, and the decade saw increased use of other angular diamond cuts, like the precise calibré cut and the emerald cut. Synthetic colored gems, specifically ruby and sapphire, were celebrated as a scientific marvel. Marcel Tolkowsky, 21 years old at the time, published the design for the round brilliant cut in 1919.
please note:Terms of Sale
Antiques can be returned unworn and in original condition within 10 days of delivery for an exchange or refund minus the cost of shipping. Once a piece has been altered, including ring re-sizing, it is FINAL SALE.



