What is a turquoise gold pin?

A turquoise gold pin is a decorative jewellery item combining gold metalwork with turquoise stones, taking the form of brooches, stick pins, and tie pins. These items span multiple eras from the Victorian period through to the mid-twentieth century. The category includes various designs such as floral sprays, hearts, crescents, and abstract modernist shapes, often incorporating secondary gems like pearls and diamonds.

How do I date a Victorian piece?

Dating a Victorian piece involves examining the specific motifs, metal purities, and construction techniques characteristic of the nineteenth century. Common indicators include yellow and rose gold, heartfelt symbols like knots, and the use of natural turquoise paired with seed pearls. Later Edwardian examples often introduce platinum or silver-topped gold settings alongside brighter turquoise cabochons, while mid-century items display distinct modernist styling.

Can a brooch be worn as a pendant?

Certain brooches are manufactured with integrated loops or hidden bales that allow them to be suspended from a chain. This dual functionality was particularly common during the Victorian period. Examining the reverse of a piece will reveal whether a hinged pin and safety catch share space with a suspension loop.