Saphiret Brooch, Antique Saphiret, Rare Antique Czechoslovakian Glass, Bohemian Pin, Star Cut Glass Rhinestone, Marcasites Brass Rhodium Pin

Rare antique European Bohemian brooch with show stopping large saphiret art glass gem:

*These rare glass stones were primarily, if not only, made in Gablonz, Czechoslovakia in the mid 1800's. The unmistakable unique rosy pink to brick red brown and blue color combination was created by mixing actual melted gold into sapphire colored glass

*This pristine example has six sided star shaped faceting centered in the front of the stone and an eight sided star pattern on the reverse for maximum depth and reflection.

*Looking at it from the front it is square in shape with rounded corners and from the side profile it has a pointed back coming to its greatest depth at the star's center

*Held securely in place by a fish tailed prong on each corner

*Because these stones are glass, they are rarely found set in precious metal. This frame appears to be brass with a silver colored wash or plating - most likely rhodium. The perfect amount of brass can be seen peeking out in higher wear areas on the back and prong corners adding to the vintage charm

*Two rows of marcasites on each side frame the stone and mimic the gentle curves

*The pin back is stamped CZECHOSLOVAKIA (an abbreviated equivalent)

*Simple safety pin type manual closure

*The saphiret alone measures 15/16" x 15/16" and the brooch has an overall height of 15/16" x a width of 1 7/16" across

*If you don't care for the brooch form - this huge antique stone would make a perfect big bold custom ring or pendant

*I have read that the production of this glass was halted around the turn of the century due to the fact that it was no longer cost effective as the price of gold had increased in value. So, by default jewelry containing them is considered either Victorian, Edwardian, or Arts & Crafts in era. This brooch has definite art deco lines and traits - making it that much more desirable, collectible, interesting, and rare. Perhaps the stone was set at a much later time than it was created, or it was pure coincidence that similar elements of would be found in art deco jewelry

*Excellent vintage condition - no damage to mention. There are a few very tiny pinpoint mars on the glass mainly visible with magnification - no chips, cracks, flakes, scratches, etc. to the glass at all. There are a small number of unobtrusive internal inclusions original to the stone - also only noted when closely scrutinizing with a perfectionist's eye.

View & enlarge photographs to closely inspect fine details and to determine the amount of patina, and/or wear. Most older pieces by nature normally have some degree of both and, unless severe, aren't considered damaged. I will note anything glaring or distracting. Please utilize the scroll arrows beside the photos to allow yourself the opportunity to view them all.

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