An exquisite and rare Victorian tortoise brooch, set with diamonds and rubies, in enameled 18Kt gold and silver, Russia, circa 1860's - 1890's.
This delightful piece has been expertly crafted out of silver and 18 karat yellow gold in the form of a tortoise with wonderful green enameling. It has been set 304, open and closed back, round mine cut diamonds totaling, approximately, 4.03 carats. The gems have all been beautifully matched and have very good clarity. Complementing them are a pair of round cut ruby eyes totaling, approximately 0.02 carats. Both gems are a rich red, have strong - vivid saturation, medium tone and very good clarity.
The pin is in excellent antique condition, with some expected signs of wear to the enamel. It weighs approximately 31.82 grams and measures 1.73 inches (4.4 cm) long by 1.46 inches (3.7 cm) wide by 0.71 inches (1.8 cm) tall. It bears the designers stamp AT and 72 for 72 Zolotniks, the Russian Imperial gold standard mark for 18K gold (confirmed with testing).
Unique!

Excellent