Description
Beautifully preserved example of Victorian Neoclassical Revival jewellery — a perfect Christmas gift for the discerning collector or lover of antique treasures.
Offered for sale by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD, this exquisite Victorian circular brooch dates from around 1865 and exemplifies the height of Neoclassical revival design.
At its centre lies a richly banded domed cabochon cut malachite gemstone, polished to a smooth, high-domed finish. The stone displays natural swirling bands of vivid green hues, ranging from deep emerald to lighter mint tones, forming a captivating marbled pattern that is unmistakably characteristic of fine-quality malachite. The gem’s rich colour and organic banding were highly prized in the 19th century, symbolising protection, prosperity, and vitality.
The malachite is set within a gilded brass (pinchbeck) mount, bordered by an elegant black enamel Greek key (meander) motif — a timeless neoclassical design symbolising eternity and unity. A finely engraved gold-toned inner border adds warmth and refinement, creating a striking contrast against the green gemstone and black enamel.
Every aspect of this brooch reflects the fine craftsmanship of the Victorian era — hand-tooled, soldered, and fitted with its original C-clasp and elongated pin stem. The brooch retains its authentic antique patina, a soft glow that enhances its historic charm and originality.
Details
Date: Circa 1865
Style: Victorian, Neoclassical Revival
Origin: United Kingdom
Materials:
Central stone: Natural malachite (domed cabochon cut, richly banded green)
Mount: Gilded brass / pinchbeck
Decoration: Black enamel Greek key motif
Pin: Steel
Dimensions: 3.4 cm × 3.2 cm × 1.7 cm
Weight: 14.14 g
Condition: Good antique used worn condition; original fittings intact. Minor age-related wear consistent with 19th-century manufacture.
Historical Significance
This brooch beautifully captures the Victorian fascination with classical antiquity, particularly the art and architecture of ancient Greece and Rome. The Greek key (meander) design, prominent in both decorative arts and jewellery of the mid-19th century, symbolises infinity, unity, and eternal flow.
Malachite, sourced historically from the Ural Mountains and later from Africa, was a gemstone much admired by Victorian jewellers for its rich banding and natural beauty. It was believed to offer protection and good fortune, making it a meaningful choice for both aesthetic and sentimental reasons.
Together, the neoclassical styling, malachite cabochon, and fine craftsmanship represent a perfect harmony of art, symbolism, and Victorian taste — making this piece a wearable work of history.
Perfect Christmas Gift
An exceptional and meaningful present for:
Antique jewellery collectors
Lovers of Neoclassical design
Anyone who appreciates historical craftsmanship
A memorable Victorian-era Christmas gift with character, authenticity, and style. Packaged securely and ready for gifting — this piece offers both heritage and elegance in one timeless jewel.
Summary
Authentic Victorian brooch (c.1865)
Domed cabochon cut malachite with vivid natural green banding
Greek key black enamel surround in gilded brass mount
Original fittings, warm antique patina
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
Ideal investment or heirloom gift
Buy with Confidence
A genuine 19th-century treasure — blending craftsmanship, history, and charm.
Perfect for display, daily wear, or as a meaningful keepsake that will last another century and beyond.
Worldwide Shipping Available
Professionally packaged and fully insured for safe global delivery.
Click “Buy It Now” to make it yours before it’s gone!
Add this precious jewellery brooch to your collection today.
UK & International Valuation & Disclaimer
This description has been prepared in good faith by Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd (United Kingdom), based on photographs, measurements, and market data available as of October 2025.
All metal and gemstone identifications have been made by visual assessment only, in accordance with accepted trade practice for desk-based antique appraisals. No gemmological or metallurgical testing has been undertaken unless expressly stated.
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD accepts no liability for any subsequent variation in valuation, description, or realised prices.
© 2025 Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD – All rights reserved.
Reproduction or quotation from this listing without written permission is prohibited.
Payment
[We accept the following payment methods, bank transfer all major credit cards & debit cards through ebay & cash on collection.]
Shipping
We are delighted to offer international worldwide delivery through the ebay global shipping programme along with direct DHL, DPD, Fedex, UPS, Parcelforce, direct door to door economy, standard & express shipping cost rates can be found in each of our listings. In the postage section simply select your country destination to find the delivery cost rates. If you country rate is not shown please ask us for a delivery quote. We securely wrap & pack all items to a professional standard. We can provide you with online tracking information. For United Kingdom only we offer Free mainland shipping as standard. For all International customers, any customs charges, demurrage, duty, taxes are your responsibility to pay so you are aware thankyou.
Terms of Sale
[Returns are accepted within 60 days of the buyer receiving the item(s). Our mission is to give buyers total confidence in buying from us. Each of our items has been researched & provenance given where available. Please contact us immediately if you have any questions we will respond promptly.
Return postage, shipping costs are to be paid by the buyer. Also any customs costs charges are also the responsibility of the buyer. The item(s) must be returned back to us in its original as sold described condition before any refund can be made back to the buyer. Deposit payments are non refundable. We certify that all of our selling activities will comply with all EU laws & regulations. After Sales, you can contact us by email or call if you would like to discuss any further questons with regards to your purchase.
About Us
Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD. Registered office located in Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London.
Source the Historic! British & European Fine Arts, paintings, sculptures & valuable collectibles! From the antique 17th century to the modern contemporary era. Founded in 2005 and still run today by fellow Directors Michael, and Victoria, for nearly two decades, coming from an academic background, overseeing all historical research. Supporting the daily operations at Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD & directing our social media campaigns, we've been taking art collectors, hobbyists, and interior aficionados on a journey through time. Our passion is sourcing the very best historic collections that the arts and antiques world has to offer and to-date, we have worked directly with private clients through to commercial corporate organisations, museums, auctioneers, art agents & dealers being their leading collaboration partners as Fine Arts consultants. Certified elected members of the Fine Art Trade Guild.
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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.
Condition
Pre-owned - Good
Buyer's Premium
20%
Victorian Neoclassical Revival Malachite Cabochon Greek Key Enamel Brooch c.1865
Estimate $800-$1,000
Starting Price
$340
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Decorative Arts & Objects d’Art Auction
Apr 30, 2026 8:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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