During the 1860s, the use of paveset turquoise and pearls adorned many a piece of jewelry. Whether in gold or silver as in this brooch, the combination of color, surface texture and form is still intriguing.

A natural dog tooth freshwater pearl functions as the base from which this plucky bird appears to be singing or calling. Its head is upright, its beak apart as if voicing its distinctive and cheery notes.

A garnet colored paste serves as its eye. Its wings, breast and tail are encrusted with turquoise cabochons and natural seed pearls. The body is silver and the reverse displays realistic textures all in this three dimensional bird pin. It still retains its original C clasp and tube hinge.