By SCALA GIOIELLI
Located in Marcianise, IT
An exceptionally bold and luxurious vintage 1980s high-jewelry masterpiece depicting a stylized, wise owl, Masterfully handcrafted in solid 18k yellow gold, this massive, highly collectible statement piece weighs an impressive 43.30 grams, making it an investment-grade example of late 20th-century animalier couture.
The substantial body of the owl features a large, beautifully polished natural Malachite gemstone, meticulously carved into a romantic heart shape. The malachite shows a rich, deep forest-green coloration with exquisite, vibrant organic banding patterns that run seamlessly across both the front and back of the open-bezel setting.
Perched above the heart is a highly expressive, three-dimensional owl head. The textured, layered feathers are hand-painted with pristine white vitreous Enamel, accented by striking emerald-green enamel rings framing the eyes and a warm orange enamel glaze highlighting the curved gold beak. The owl's hypnotic gaze is brought to life by two premium round natural blue Sapphire cabochons totaling 1.06 carats, serving as the pupils. The eyes and geometric brow lines are brilliantly illuminated by 0.35 carats of icy round brilliant-cut diamonds.
An exceptional and highly desirable design feature of this jewel is its clever dual-functional engineering: the reverse backing is equipped with both a traditional secure pin closure and a pair of integrated gold suspension loops at the top. This allows the piece to transition seamlessly from a commanding statement brooch to a spectacular, heavy pendant centerpiece.
Please note: The neck chain is not included in the purchase price. Should you wish to pair the pendant with a matching gold chain, it can be purchased separately and custom ordered upon request.
Technical Details
Period: 1980s / Late 20th Century Vintage
Design: Figurative Wise Owl with a Heart-Shaped Body (Animalier)
Dual Functionality: Convertible Brooch / Pendant
Metal: 18k Yellow Gold
Total Weight: 43.30 grams (Highly substantial and heavy collector's scale)
Body Material: 1 Large Heart-Cut Natural Malachite (Malachite a cuore)
Enamelwork: Polychrome Vitreous Enamel - Glossy White (feathers), Green (eyes), and Orange (beak)
Sapphires (Pupils): 1.06 carats total (2 Natural Round Cabochons)
Diamonds Total Weight: 0.35 carats (Round Brilliant-Cut)
Setting Technique: Fine Bead Setting / Grain Setting for diamonds, traditional bezel collets for the sapphires and malachite heart...
Category
1980s Italian Artisan Vintage Malachite Brooches
MaterialsDiamond, Malachite, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold