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CHESHIRE ANTIQUES CONSULTANT LTD

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https://www.decorativecollective.com/dealers/cheshire-antiques-consultant-ltd

Item Details

Georgian Scottish Carnelian Agate Brooch in 9ct Gold, c.1830 Antique Hardstone Jewellery
Subject & Medium
An elegant early 19th-century Georgian brooch set with a natural carnelian agate within a tested 9ct gold mount, dating to circa 1830.
The richly coloured hardstone displays deep amber, burnt orange, and oxblood red tones, with subtle translucency around the edges that catches the light beautifully. Natural internal inclusions, clouding, and tonal variation give the stone remarkable depth and character, making this a particularly attractive example of antique carnelian jewellery.
Design & Craftsmanship
The brooch is designed in a bold square form, centred around a softly domed cabochon-cut carnelian.
The stone has been carefully polished to reveal its natural structure and colour variation, then secured within a hand-made claw setting. The minimal gold mount allows the agate itself to remain the visual focus — a characteristic feature of the Scottish hardstone jewellery tradition of the period.
The reverse retains its original early pin and clasp fitting, consistent with Georgian craftsmanship, and the brooch has a pleasing weight and sculptural presence when worn.
Historical Context
Dating to the transitional period between the Georgian and Victorian eras, this brooch reflects the growing popularity of Scottish agate jewellery during the early 19th century.
Jewellers of the period increasingly celebrated the natural beauty of hardstones, favouring richly coloured agates and carnelians mounted in restrained gold settings. Pieces of this type are now highly regarded for their craftsmanship, individuality, and connection to Britain’s historic agate-working tradition.
About the Maker
Unmarked, as expected for the period.
Likely produced by a skilled British provincial goldsmith working within the Scottish agate tradition or influenced by its aesthetic principles. The hand-crafted construction and quality of the stone setting demonstrate experienced early 19th-century workmanship.
Provenance
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Acquired from a private collection through a respected West Yorkshire jewellery dealer within the United Kingdom antiques trade.
Why Collect It
Georgian period jewellery dating to circa 1830
Beautiful natural carnelian with rich colour variation
Strong square architectural design
Hand-crafted 9ct gold mount
Fine example of the Scottish agate-working tradition
Attractive transitional Georgian/Victorian period piece
Excellent display of natural stone inclusions and translucency
Highly wearable and visually striking
Increasingly sought-after category among collectors of antique hardstone jewellery

Dimensions
Width: approximately 2.7 cm
Height: approximately 2.7 cm
Depth: approximately 0.5 cm
Weight: 7.38 grams
Condition Report
Presented in good antique condition with light wear commensurate with age and use.
One claw is missing, though the stone remains secure within the setting. This is a minor issue and could be professionally restored if desired.
The carnelian remains free from visible cracks or chips and retains an excellent polished surface with strong colour and depth throughout.
No presentation case included.

  • Period: Georgian
    • Price: £2,800.00
    • €3,238 Euro
    • $3,758 US Dollar
  • Location: London
    • Dimensions: H: 2.7cm (1.06in)
    • W: 2.7cm (1.06in)
    • D: 0.5cm (0.20in)