Victorian Grape Leaf Brooch

Beautifully detailed grape leaves and a cluster of fresh water pearls cascade across the oval frame of this Victorian brooch.  In Victorian times grapes and grape leaves were a symbol of Christ, but also carried overtones of Bacchus and riotous revelry.  Created by Ostby & Barton in 10kt gold, circa 1890.

The brooch is beautifully crafted with a sturdy pin stem and early "C" clasp.  Note the detail visible on the back of the larger grape leaf and the solid back plate that supports and protects the cluster of pearls.

The maker's mark of Ostby & Barton ("OB") is found on the clasp along with "10K" for the purity of the gold.  Ostby & Barton was founded in 1879 and created fine jewelry in Providence, Rhode Island for over 80 years.  One of the firm's founders, Engelhart Ostby, perished in the ill-fated inaugural voyage of the Titanic.

Name:  Grapes and Pearls

Cost:  $425

Measurements:  This Victorian brooch is crafted in 10kt yellow gold measures 1 1/8" by just over 5/8".  Weighs 2.1 grams.