Antique Georgian miniature eye jewelry brooch. Gold, pearls, metal and portrait. Made in England, United Kingdom late 18th - early 19th century.
Unisex - suitable for a man or a woman.

Measurements: Weight is 2.7 grams. Length is a little over 1/2 inch (1.5cm).

Description : A truly remarkable tiny brooch. Made at a time when it was quality, not size that mattered. Rectangular in shape, the outside is bordered by a rectangle of little pearls. Well matched and in good shape, considering their age. Within, under beveled glass, is a tiny portrait of a miniature eye. Beautifully painted with incredible, fine detail. The iris is a rare bright green. Eyebrows are brown. Arching, closed back. Simple c-clasp with hinged pin at the back.
An exquisite example of a miniature eye portrait brooch.

During this period, it became fashionable for lovers to give gifts of their eye portraits to one another. The idea was that only the wearer would know the identity of the person represented. In this way, they could carry a representation of their loved one without compromising anyone. The fashion was set by the Regent, the future King George IV, so even then, it was often men who wore these brooches. Can be worn on a shoulder, lapel, scarf, sleeve or even a hat. The sentiment and emotion that clearly attached to this brooch make it a great deal more than the sum of its parts.

Marks and Metal: No marks. Metal was electronically tested with varying results. The pin is not gold. The metal reinforcing the side at the back is not gold. The rest tests as low carat gold (approx 10k).

Condition: Good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.