
Description
An impressive vintage brooch by David Webb made of 18k gold, green enamel, and gemstones. This whimsical creature features all the Webb’s design staples: size, exotic look, bright colors, and luxurious appearance. It belongs to Twilight Tales collection. The grasshopper is crafted with meticulous detail and appears incredibly realistic. It is adorned with a diamond collar, which is one more element saying the brooch was designed by David Webb. This fantastic vintage brooch is a head-turner, and it is looking to be worn by a true admirer of David Webb’s genius. This vintage Webb brooch is made of 18 karat yellow gold, green enamel, and accented with diamonds and rubies. The diamonds are set in platinum which accentuates their whiteness. The vintage brooch measures 2 3/8" x ¾” x ¾” (6 x 2.2 x 2.2 cm) and weighs 46.4 grams. It is stamped with David Webb maker's mark, serial number, hallmarks for 18 karat gold and platinum. About David Webb: Bold, excessive, and uncompromising, David Webb jewelry pieces always make a statement. No matter if you are wearing Webb earrings, ring or necklace — rest assured you have a conversational piece that inevitably grabs attention. The designer drew his inspiration in ancient history and nature. As a result, the David Webb collection pieces are made using 18 karat gold, often featuring massive colored stones and bright, vibrant enamel. Among his personal influencers Webb himself mentioned Jeanne Toussaint, the creative director of Cartier. Webb put his own spin on Maison’s figurative pieces and Tutti-Frutti style. All these elements put together enhanced with a great portion of glamour made David Webb jewelry appreciated by Hollywood stars and royal houses. Liz Taylor, Coco Chanel and Jacqueline Kennedy could be seen wearing his pieces. Webb’s exotic animals, whimsical flowers and colorful pendants along with textured gold necklaces are largely popular worldwide until today. Always loyal to himself, David Webb created his powerful pieces with precision and knowledge. Whether he explored the ancient motifs or Art Deco forms, he went deep into the subject and reinvented it. History of Insect Jewelry: Insect jewelry carries a diverse symbolism and has deep historic roots. To us, these pieces serve as a reminder of the delicate beauty that designers found in nature. Scarab Beetles In ancient Egypt, scarab beetles were associated with the Sun God Ra. They symbolized regeneration and protection. Scarabs were often used in amulets, and seals to bring good luck and ward off evil. Bees and Butterflies Bees were revered in ancient Greece and Rome and seen as symbols of diligence and cooperation. Honey, a product of bees, was also associated with sweetness and fertility. Butterflies, with their transformation from caterpillar to butterfly, were seen as symbols of metamorphosis and the soul's journey. Insect Jewelry Resurgence In the 19th century, during the Victorian era, there was a resurgence of interest in nature-inspired jewelry. It often incorporated real insect specimens preserved in resin. This trend was influenced by the Victorian fascination with the natural world and scientific discoveries of the time. The Art Nouveau movement of the late 19th - early 20th centuries embraced organic forms and drew inspiration from nature. Insect motifs, such as dragonflies, butterflies, and beetles, were prominent in Art Nouveau jewelry. These pieces featured flowing lines and delicate designs. Today, insect jewelry continues to be equally loved by designers and jewelry buyers. For example, dragonflies are often associated with change and self-realization, while butterfly brooches symbolize transformation and beauty. Bees are still seen as symbols of hard work, community, and productivity.
More Details
Creator:
David Webb
Metal:
Gold,18k Gold,Yellow Gold,Platinum
Weight:
46.4 g
Dimensions:
Width: 0.75 in (19.05 mm)Depth: 0.75 in (19.05 mm)Length: 2.38 in (60.46 mm)
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1980-1989
Date of Manufacture:
1980
Condition:
GoodWear consistent with age and use.
Reference Number:
Seller: JNOOO 6-241stDibs: LU6923025272
Reserve: $23,600.00
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Buyer's Premium
20%
David Webb Vintage Brooch Gold Grasshopper Enamel Gemstones Estate Jewelry
Estimate $28,000-$34,000
Starting Price
$11,000
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Mar 26, 2026 9:00 AM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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