This very lovely antique Victorian onyx and seed pearl brooch features 2 smaller evenly matched pearls and one larger one, each mounted in a stunning star shaped setting of 18kt gold within circles of onyx and gold. 
 
In the Victorian Era, onyx, a form of chalcedony, was widely considered as a powerful protection stone. Its deep black color is associated with the night, symbolizing strength, perseverance, the ability to overcome challenges, and remembrance. It is believed to absorb negative energy and provide emotional and physical strength to its wearer. The myth of the origin of onyx says that the goddess Venus was resting on the banks of the Indus River. As she slept, Cupid used the point of one of his enchanted arrows to give her a manicure. The parings of her nails then fell into the waters of the sacred river. Since the nails were of heavenly origin, they sank to the river bottom and were metamorphosed into onyx.
 
Pearls have long been known to symbolize luxury, grace and purity. They were frequently also used to symbolize love, devotion, and faith. In the Victorian era, they also could symbolise tears, so they were seen as acceptable to wear during mourning. 
 
MATERIAL
18 kt gold, Onyx, Seed Pearls
 
AGE
Victorian
 
CONDITION: 
Very good – surface wear commensurate with age and use
 
SIZE:
H 1 cm
W 3 cm
 
WEIGHT:
3.73 g