Item:
Here on offer is a rather interesting, nicely detailed, 3 dimensional vintage sterling silver kangaroo brooch. The piece is set with marcasite stones which are often refered to as black diamonds. The brooch dates from the 1940's and is stamped with "STG SIL" on the back. The condition overall is very good. There are a couple of marcasite stones missing and one from the eye of the kangaroo but these are easily replaced. Pin measures 1 1/2 inches by 1 1/8 inches or 3.75cm x 3cm . Highly unusual and highly collectible this little guy looks fantastic as an accessory.
History:
Marcasite jewellery is jewellery made from pyrite (fool's gold), not, as the name suggests, from marcasite. Pyrite is similar to marcasite, but more stable and less brittle. Marcasite jewellery has been made since the time of the Ancient Greeks. It was particularly popular in the eighteenth century, the Victorian era and with Art Nouveau jewellery designers. It is frequently made by setting small pieces of pyrite into silver. Cheaper costume jewellery is made by glueing pieces of pyrite rather than setting. A similar-looking type of jewellery can be made from small pieces of cut steel.
Gemstones: Properties, Identification and Use
Antique Jewelry: A Practical & Passionate Guide
Jewelrymaking Through History: An Encyclopedia
(All history taken from Wikipedia for educational purposes only.)
