Victorian Transformation Sunburst Brooch Pendant Certified with Ceylon Sapphires and variety of precious gems

Victorian Transformable Harlequin Gemstone Sunburst Brooch Pendant with Certified Unheated Ceylon Sapphires and Green Metamict Zircon

Circa 1890–1910
14 Carat Gold
Weight: 14.9 grams

An exceptional Victorian transformable sunburst brooch pendant crafted in 14 carat gold, circa 1890–1910. Designed as a radiant starburst, this ingenious jewel incorporates a detachable central gemstone cluster secured by an integrated screw mechanism concealed behind the central aquamarine. The aquamarine mount may be unscrewed, allowing the inner star-shaped arrangement of gemstones to be removed entirely. The jewel may therefore be worn in two distinct configurations: either as the complete gemstone-set sunburst or as the outer starburst frame alone, retaining the aquamarine centre as the focal point. A discreet pendant fitting further enhances its versatility, allowing the piece to be worn as either a brooch or a pendant in either configuration.

Centred by a natural aquamarine of approximately 4.00 carats, the jewel is set throughout with an attractive and highly unusual harlequin arrangement of coloured gemstones including certified unheated Sri Lankan (Ceylon) sapphires, a certified natural green metamict zircon, blue zircon, garnets, citrine and purple sapphires. The sophisticated transformation mechanism, combined with the diverse gemstone suite, creates a jewel of considerable visual appeal and collector interest.

Gemmological testing by Gemmological Certification Services (GCS), London, confirmed the following gemstones:

• Natural Green Metamict Zircon, approximately 2.60 carats, no indications of treatment – GCS Report No. 5786-2921

• Natural Yellow Sapphire, Sri Lanka (Ceylon) origin, no indications of heating, approximately 0.55 carats – GCS Report No. 5786-2920

• Natural Blue Sapphire, Sri Lanka (Ceylon) origin, no indications of heating, approximately 1.40 carats – GCS Report No. 5786-2919, Stone A

• Natural Blue Sapphire, Sri Lanka (Ceylon) origin, no indications of heating, approximately 0.75 carats – GCS Report No. 5786-2919, Stone B

• Natural Blue Sapphire, Sri Lanka (Ceylon) origin, no indications of heating, approximately 0.70 carats – GCS Report No. 5786-2919, Stone C

Gemstone inventory arranged by approximate size:

• Natural Aquamarine – approximately 4.00 carats

• Natural Green Metamict Zircon – approximately 2.60 carats (GCS Report No. 5786-2921)

• Natural Blue Sapphire – approximately 1.40 carats, Sri Lanka (Ceylon), unheated (GCS Report No. 5786-2919, Stone A)

• Natural Blue Sapphire – approximately 0.75 carats, Sri Lanka (Ceylon), unheated (GCS Report No. 5786-2919, Stone B)

• Natural Blue Sapphire – approximately 0.70 carats, Sri Lanka (Ceylon), unheated (GCS Report No. 5786-2919, Stone C)

• Natural Yellow Sapphire – approximately 0.55 carats, Sri Lanka (Ceylon), unheated (GCS Report No. 5786-2920)

• 2 x Purple Sapphire

• Blue Zircon

• Garnets

• Citrine

• Amethysts

The confirmed gemstone suite includes approximately 3.40 carats of certified unheated Sri Lankan sapphires together with a certified 2.60 carat natural green metamict zircon, creating a particularly unusual and gemmologically significant combination within an antique jewel. The confirmed Sri Lankan origin and absence of heat treatment further distinguish the sapphire suite and enhance the desirability of the piece.

Particularly appealing is the jewel’s ingenious transformation mechanism, allowing it to be worn in multiple configurations while retaining the aquamarine centrepiece. Such versatility, combined with the jewel’s colourful harlequin palette and substantial scale, exemplifies the creativity and technical sophistication of late Victorian jewellery design.

A rare and highly collectible example of Victorian craftsmanship, combining transformation functionality, pendant conversion, certified natural gemstones and exceptional visual impact. Surviving examples retaining their original transformation mechanism are increasingly scarce and highly sought after by collectors of fine antique jewellery.

Accompanied by Three GCS Gemmological Reports (Nos. 5786-2919, 5786-2920 and 5786-2921) confirming the natural unheated Sri Lankan sapphires and natural green metamict zircon.

Condition & Authenticity

Each piece has been carefully inspected and is presented in very good condition, with wear consistent with its age and use. Materials and stones are assessed using standard industry methods and professional experience. Additional images or video are available on request.

Pricing & taxes

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