Early 20th C. Gemstone & Silver Brooches: Scottish & Chinese

Two Early 20th C. gemstone & silver brooches approx includes…
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Two Early 20th C. gemstone & silver brooches approx includes cairngorm agate Scottish silver brooch 25 mm. Chinese Export silver enamel & malachite brooch 25 x 3 2 mm

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  • Cairngorm - Cairngorm is a type of smoky quartz, which is a variety of quartz that ranges in colour from light gray to dark brown. It is found in granite rock in the Cairngorm Mountains of Scotland, hence its name, and it is typically found in large clusters. The mineral is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 7, and it is fairly durable, making it a suitable choice for jewellery and decorative objects.

    Cairngorm is said to have spiritual and healing properties, it is believed to have grounding energy, and it is thought to help with focus and concentration. It is also said to be a stone of protection and is said to help balance the energy within the body.

    The mining and collection of Cairngorms is heavily regulated in Scotland, and it is illegal to remove them from the Cairngorms National Park without a permit.
  • Agate - Agate is a type of semi-precious gemstone that is made up of silica dioxide, a mineral that is also found in quartz. It is known for its distinctive banded patterns, which are created as layers of silica are deposited in different colours including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. It is often used in jewellery, decorative objects, and other decorative items, and it is prized for its beauty and durability. Agate is found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, India, and the United States.
  • Malachite - Malachite is bright copper-green coloured stone with concentric layers which displays distinct contrasting veinings. It has been valued in the past for making or decorating small precious objects such as clocks, jewellery, dishes and so. In the Orient it was used for snuff bottles and in Russia and was favoured by the Faberge workshop. larger pieces were used for table tops.

    The principal source of supply was Russia but it is to be found in other regions such as Southern Africa, Mexico, Australia and France.

    Malachite glass is a manufactured material that was intended to resemble malachite, but often bears more resemblance to a veined coloured marble due to its lower gloss finish and lack of concentric layers. Malachite glass was manufactured by many glassworks in the 19th century including Loetz in Austria and others in Bohemia and Davidson's Greener's and Sowerby in north eastern England.

    It was particularly used for scent bottles, bowls, and small vases often decorated with nymphs.

    Malachite glass has been manufactured continuously since the late nineteenth century, most is unmarked and it is difficult to distinguish the age or manufacturer of most commercial pieces.

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