A late Victorian sweetheart brooch incorporating 4 classic sentimental symbols: the ivy leaf for everlasting love; the cross, heart and anchor representing faith, hope and charity; forget-me-nots for true love & devotion and a swallow for the safe return of a loved one.
Typically made in silver, this circa 1890's sweetheart brooch is yellow gold and stamped 9 Carat to the reverse alongside S.Bros. for the Sydenham Brothers, the masters of sweetheart jewellery. Lightweight and dainty, the leaf body is handcrafted from a thin sheet of gold with curled hollow edges and stalk, and embossed with raised motifs.
In good condition; there is a slight rose gold tone to the brooch although this has faded over the year. The motif for faith, hope and charity is a little worn but still good and clear. At some point over the years one of the tips to the leaf has been damaged where the pin hinge is, and repaired with silver which was then gold plated - this has faded over time and the silver tone shows through, although it is really not very noticable unless closely inspected. The pin was perhaps replaced at the same time as it is not gold. This was clearly a very well loved and cared for important piece of jewellery to someone, most likely given as a token of affection over 120 years ago.
