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Two Plique-a-Jour Enamel Ruby Butterfly Brooches 18 Karat Gold Moveable Wings

About the Item

This is a wonderful and rare pair of Brooches in the form of a Butterfly in 18 Karat Yellow Gold with Ruby eyes and Plique-a-jour Enamel wings which are articulated so that they can be moved into whatever position you desire. The magnificent Butterflies have exquisite Plique-a-jour enamel wings, ruby eyes and are 18 Karat Gold. Plique-a-jour enamel is the most exquisite and difficult to create form of enamel as it requires a master artisan to make the see through open backed stained glass effect of the enamel. The light pours through radiating the gorgeous colors of blue, red, yellow and green in the wings of the butterfly. The wonderful wings can each be turned and moved so that you may place them in whatever position you desire. The jewels exhibit the exquisite talents of a master jeweler who has created both Plique-a-jour enamel and the moveable wings. The butterfly brooches will dance and fly with delight wherever they are worn and are sure to enhance your most favorite wardrobe. Plique-à-jour, is a French term that translates to “letting in the daylight” and defines a type of transparent enamel that has no backing. Similar to a stained glass window, the design has a metal outline filled with various colored transparent, glass-like enamels. First discovered in the 15th century by Benvenuto Cellini, plique-à-jour was rediscovered in France circa 1900 and soared to new heights during the Art Nouveau period. Plique-à-jour provides a natural translucency, similar to that found in nature, which makes it ideal for rendering leaves, flowers, insect wings and other gossamer illusions. Each butterfly is 1 3/4 inches (45mm) x 1 3/8 inches (35mm). The butterflies are hallmarked 18K Spain. Together the butterflies weigh 12.7 grams.
  • Metal:
    Gold,18k Gold,Yellow Gold,Enamel
  • Stone:
    Ruby
  • Stone Cut:
    Round Cut
  • Weight:
    12.7 g
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 1.75 in (44.45 mm)Width: 1.4 in (35.56 mm)
  • Style:
    Retro
  • Place of Origin:
    Spain
  • Period:
    20th Century
  • Date of Manufacture:
    20th Century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    New York, NY
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU1476217971222

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