Victorian French 18ct gold, enamel and old cut diamond star

A spectacular French antique star of museum quality. Six dramatic black enamel and 18ct gold points exploding from a breathtaking cascade of old cut diamonds, set in silver over gold in the classic French manner. The contrast is nothing short of theatrical. 

Cut entirely by hand before the age of machinery, old cut diamonds were made for candlelight. Warm, fiery and deeply romantic, with no two identical. The cluster here is simply stunning and approximately 2ct in total weight. 

Star jewellery surged in popularity during the Victorian era, carrying powerful symbolism such as guidance, destiny and divine protection. A constant light in the darkness. 

This was once also a brooch but the pin has since been removed, leaving part of the remaining catch as a second possible bail option. Works well on gold and silver chains of varying styles and sizes (see pics - chains not included).

With some expected age related wear, including a small chip in the enamel (see pics - only noticeable when looking up really close), we think this piece has remained in wonderful condition.