Celestial jewelry first gained popularity thanks to the discovery of Halley’s comet, by astronomer Sir Edmond Halley all the way back in 1682. He correctly predicted the comet would return in 1758, then again in 1835. To prepare for the comet's arrival in the 1800’s, late-Georgian/ early Victorian women sought out comet-themed brooches in gold and diamonds or silver and paste.
The celestial jewelry craze did not pass with Halley’s comet. Throughout the Victorian era, stars were carved into gemstones, or used as the base shape for brooches and hair ornaments. Stars and crescent moons were fashioned out of pearls, opals, rubies, diamonds and other hard stones.
During the reign of King Edward VII in the early 1900’s, Queen Alexandra generously adorned her outfits with many star and crescent jewels.
More than 100 years later moon, star and sun designs remain popular in all jewelry categories, from fashion to fine. For almost as long as we’ve been studying the stars, we’ve been adorning ourselves with their glimmering likeness.
This crescent moon brooch features a chased design with florals, boules, and a safety chain for security. Marvelous to wear for both women and men, it will have everyone gazing at you whenever you wear it!
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 1 3/8"
Weight: 4.2 grams
Materials: 9K yellow gold
Marks: Chester Shield; 9; 375; D (1887)
Condition: Excellent Antique condition
LORL, LOE