Rivaling the real fluttering insect, this magnificent diamond and gem set butterfly pendant and brooch was created by the former firm of J.E. Caldwell & Co.

Of unmistakable quality and fine craftsmanship, it still retains its original box. Its size is impressive, the gems glow, the diamonds reflect light in every direction, and the design is balanced and perfectly proportioned.

Circa 1900, the diamonds appear to leap from their settings with remarkable prismatic light. Each of the wings is enhanced by either natural sapphires or natural rubies. Australian opals serve as the body of the butterfly, and two rubies are inset as eyes.

Gold curlicues serve as the antennae with delineated legs as well the thorax that is accented with segmented gold. A fold-up and down bale allows this to be worn as a pendant or brooch.

This comes in the original maroon tooled leather, cream silk, and velvet box printed to the interior, J.E. Caldwell & Co., Philadelphia. A true find!

Provenance: From a prominent Philadelphia family purchased at J.E. Caldwell.

Details:

Old European cut diamonds

Sixty-six at a total of 3.2 carats

Color F-G-H, clarity VS

Six natural sapphires

Total of .84 carats.

Six natural rubies

Total of .36 carats

Two Australian opals

Total of 1.25 carats

14k subtle rose gold