In the late 19th century, London was captivated by the beauty of ornithology. From the King of Prussia to Napoleon III, European royalty commissioned hummingbirds as symbols of fashion and status.
This rare 1910 Antique Brooch is a survivor of that golden age. Crafted in Dual Gold (typical of the era), it features a hummingbird brought to life through Hand-Painted Enamel. Accented with Diamonds and Rubies, the enamel captures the iridescent flash of feathers, creating a “painting with light” that no modern machine can replicate.
“If gemstones give a bird elegance, enamel gives it soul.”
Enameling is an ancient technique dating back to Byzantium, but it reached new heights in 19th-century Europe. Masters like René Lalique used it to create “soft light,” while others revived the Limoges technique. This Hummingbird Brooch uses heat-fused enamel to replicate the vibrant plumage of nature. It is a colored glass effect that allows the jeweler to play with light, creating a realistic finish that conveys the movement and color of a living bird.
💎The Royal Obsession: At the 1867 International Expo, hummingbirds became a sensation. Historical records show that Napoleon III and the Duchess of Aosta placed orders for such pieces. Owning this brooch is like owning a piece of that aristocratic history.
✨Dual Gold Construction: Typical of the 1900s, this piece uses a “Dual Gold” technique (often silver topping on yellow gold) to hold the diamonds securely while adding depth to the design. The mix of metals adds to its antique charm.
🎨Rubies & Diamonds: The enamel is complemented by precious stones. Rubies add a flash of passion (often for the eye or throat), while antique-cut diamonds provide the sparkle, making this a true piece of High Jewelry.
What is Hand-Painted Enamel?
It is a technique where powdered glass is mixed with oil and painted onto a metal surface like a canvas, then fired in a kiln. This Antique Hummingbird Brooch showcases this delicate art form, preserving colors for over a century.
Is this brooch fragile?
Antique enamel is durable but should be treated with care. Avoid dropping it on hard surfaces, as enamel is essentially glass fused to metal. With proper care, this 1910 Heirloom will last for another hundred years.
Main Material
Vitreous Enamel (Hand Painted)
Gemstones
Old Cut Diamond, Natural Ruby
Metal
Dual Gold (18k Gold & Silver/Platinum)
Era
c. 1910 (Late Edwardian)
Motif
Hummingbird (Bird of Joy)
—Complimentary worldwide shipping
—For orders outside the HK, local duties and taxes may apply and are the responsibility of the purchaser
🔍
🔍
🔍
🔍
