WILLIAM BROWN, ANTIQUE, PEARL, DIAMOND AND CHALCEDONY CAMEO BROOCH

Consisting of a chalcedony cameo depicting Charles the Bald, and engraved 'CHARLES II' as well as signed 'BROWN', four pearls (origin not tested) measuring approximately 5.00 mm in a rose cut diamond surround. Mounted in yellow gold and silver. 1 3/4 x 1 1/2 inches.
Brooch fitting stamp: (French hallmark)(French maker's mark).
Gross weight: 14.40 dwt.

William Brown was a masterful gem engraver whose craftsmanship transcends time and captivates hearts with its intricacy and beauty. Born in late 18th-century England, Brown's journey into the realm of gem engraving began with a fascination for the delicate artistry of precious stones.

Among Brown's most celebrated works are his series of cameos depicting famous French monarchs, shown here with his rendering of the 9th century King Charles the Bald. Catherine the Great of Russia was his most prolific patron, and her collection is now housed at the Hermitage in St. Petersburg.

His meticulous attention to detail and mastery of form have earned William Brown a place among the pantheon of great gem engravers throughout history.

This lot is located in Chicago.

Overall Condition: Acid test indicates the back is silver and 14 karat yellow gold top.

All lots are sold “AS IS”. Please contact the jewelry department at [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Please note that measurements and opinions on gems are given as a courtesy and are approximated. It is recommended you talk to a specialist or view items in person before placing a bid.

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

April Matteini, GG

Senior Vice President, Head of Department, Jewelry

[email protected]561.833.8053

A Graduate Gemologist (GIA) who specializes in evaluating and appraising fine antique, estate jewelry and gemstones, Ms. Matteini provides streamlined services for Freeman's jewelry clients throughout Florida and the Southeast. Prior to joining the firm, she served as Bonhams Vice President for the Florida region and as the Regional Director for Skinner Auctioneers. A native New Englander, April has lived in South Florida since 2005 with her family. She enjoys membership in the American Society of Jewelry Historians, the jewelry social club Gem-X, and a life-long love of sailing. April brings more than 25 years of jewelry appraisal and auction house experience, combined with exceptional communications and customer service skills to her position.

Karina Hammer, GG

Senior Specialist, Jewelry & Watches

[email protected]312.334.4226

Ms. Hammer brings 16 years of experience in the jewelry industry to Freeman's. She began her jewelry career in New York City working as a diamond grader at GIA while simultaneously achieving her Graduate Gemologist degree. She then worked in luxury retail on Madison Avenue where she collaborated with world renowned jewelry houses. From New York she moved to Asia where she advised in high end colored diamonds sales. After moving to Chicago in 2012, she continued her jewelry career specializing in diamonds and design, as well as managing appraisals at Steve Quick Jeweler. Though she loves working with all exquisite gemstones and revels in the history of antique pieces, she also values the connections she makes with clients and understands both the emotional and business side of the jewelry world. Karina grew up in Perth, Australia and has also lived in the United Kingdom, New York City and Singapore.

Ruth Thuston, GG

Senior Specialist, Jewelry & Watches

[email protected]312.447.3268

Ms. Thuston brings to Freeman's over 20 years’ experience in antique, period and estate jewelry having facilitated the selling process for thousands of clients. Her career includes opening the Chicago jewelry department at Heritage Auctions and directing the Chicago office of CIRCA for twelve years. Earlier in her career she sold jewelry and watches for two of Chicago’s leading jewelers, CD Peacock and Sidney Garber. She is a Graduate Gemologist from the Gemological Institute of America and has a Bachelor of Arts in music from Albion College. Ms. Thuston has received national and chapter awards for her work with the Women’s Jewelry Association and is an executive board member of the Chicago History Museum Costume Council, a candidate member of the National Association of Jewelry appraisers (NAJA), a voting member of the Accredited Gemologist Association (AGA) and member of The American Society of Jewelry Historians.

Important Jewelry

WILLIAM BROWN, ANTIQUE, PEARL, DIAMOND AND CHALCEDONY CAMEO BROOCH

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