Antique Turquoise and Rose Cut Diamond Fleur-de-lis Brooch

A beautifully crafted 19th-century convertible brooch, made in 18k gold and silver and centered with a vivid oval turquoise. The stone is overlaid with a fleur-de-lis motif set with softly sparkling rose-cut diamonds, framed by glinting rose cut diamonds. 

This piece is a wonderful example of antique convertible jewelry. A clever removable mechanism, secured by a tiny gold screw, allows the brooch fitting to be detached so the jewel could be worn in another way, likely as a pendant. Such versatility reflects both the ingenuity and exceptional craftsmanship of the period, when jewels were designed to adapt to different occasions and styles.

A jeweler could bring back this jewel’s versatility by simply leaning into what it was always meant to do. The jewel could easily shift from a brooch to a pendant with the addition of a subtle, well-placed bail or hidden loop. It might also be set into a delicate frame or slide so it could be worn on a necklace or even adapted for a bracelet, all without making permanent changes. With thoughtful, minimal adjustments, the jewel could once again move effortlessly between different forms of wear—just as its original maker intended.

Metal: 18k yellow gold and silver

Measurements: 7/8" x 3/4"

Weight: 8.8 grams

Markings: letter A in a a square, hand inscribed 23