Victorian Filigree Coral Brooch

Object/Artifact

-

The Recorded Image Project

Name/Title

Victorian Filigree Coral Brooch

Entry/Object ID

Needs ID

Description

1885-1910

Use

This is a late-Victorian to early-Edwardian filigree brooch, likely dating circa 1885–1910, and it’s a lovely, very collectible example.

Category

19th Century, Jewelery, Victorian, 1880's, Early Edwardian

Made/Created

Date made

circa 1885 - circa 1910

Time Period

Victorian, Edwardian

Place

Region

Central Europe

Continent

Europe

Notes

Possibly Italy or France

Materials

Material

Metal

Material Notes

Construction: Fine openwork filigree with applied wire decoration. The crisp wirework and symmetry suggest hand fabrication rather than casting. Center stone: A coral cabochon (most likely Mediterranean red coral). Coral was widely used in Victorian jewelry and symbolized protection, vitality, and good fortune. Metal: Likely silver (possibly low-grade or silver-gilt originally). The darkened patina is consistent with age and oxidation rather than modern plating. Clasp: Early C-clasp with long pin, correct for the period and a strong authenticity indicator.

Condition

Overall Condition

Good

Date Examined

Jan 30, 2026

Notes

Filigree appears intact (important—filigree damage is common). Coral cabochon looks original and well-set. Pin appears period-correct; even if slightly bent, that’s normal for age.

General Notes

Note Type

Description

Note

This elegant late-Victorian brooch features an elongated navette form crafted in delicate openwork filigree, centered with a smooth red coral cabochon. The finely hand-worked silver filigree displays scrolling wire motifs and scalloped detailing typical of turn-of-the-century craftsmanship. Coral, prized in the Victorian era for its protective symbolism and vibrant color, provides a striking focal point against the softly aged metal. The reverse retains an early pin and C-clasp, consistent with period construction. Light patina and minor wear attest to its age and authenticity. Likely produced in Southern Europe—possibly Italy—this brooch reflects the refined ornamental taste and technical skill characteristic of late 19th-century jewelry.

Create Date

January 30, 2026