Victorian Crescent Moon Brooch

This enchanting Victorian crescent moon brooch, circa 1890, showcases approximately 2.5 carats of old cushion-cut diamonds, each set in crimped silver collet mounts against a warm gold backing. The open gallery design allows light to pass through the diamonds, enhancing their sparkle and making cleaning of the stones easy.

The crescent moon was a beloved symbol in Victorian jewellery, representing the feminine moon goddess and embodying new beginnings. Jewellery featuring celestial motifs, like comets and stars, was particularly popular during this period, with crescent moons capturing the essence of renewal and femininity. Brooches were essential accessories in Victorian fashion, often adorning the silhouette of a corset.

Unmarked, the gold tests as 15K. This brooch measures 22mm by 23mm and weighs 3.9 grams. Its bright diamonds, though some are naturally included, retain a lively sparkle that adds charm to this beautiful piece of Victorian symbolism.

A similar example can be found in the Victoria & Albert Museum in London (Accession number M.98-1978).