Summary

Pearl and blue paste Art Nouveau gold brooch made by Thomas Gaunt, Melbourne, circa 1895.

Thomas Gaunt produced many pieces of jewellery to satisfy the demand of 'Marvellous Melbourne'. This fine piece of Art Nouveau jewellery demonstrates how Melbourne was very much to the fore in world jewellery fashion. Incorporating Australian mabe pearls, seed pearls and paste, the cost was kept low but the result is a stylish and highly fashionable piece of jewellery. With such low cost elements set in 15 carat gold, it is remarkable that it has survived the pawnbroker's melting pot.

The brooch is presented in a box by purveyor 'Gunters' of Melbourne.

Physical Description

Delicate gold inverted triangle brooch supports two prominent vertical pearls. Smaller gold crescents at either side contain minute bursts of blue paste. Seed pearls line the lower V's of the triangle whilst minute blue paste embelishes the three horizontal bars above that support the main largest top mabe pearl. A fine gold chain and pin extend from top left corner.

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