Agate & Engraved Sterling Sailor's Cross Brooch

A striking Scottish brooch in the shape of a Sailor's Cross: in other words, an anchor transformed into a cross with the addition of a horizontal crossbar. The body of the three-dimensional anchor is a cross of beveled banded agate. The anchor's head and fluked arms are sterling silver, exquisitely engraved with a curling acanthus leaf motif. A classic Victorian long pin and c-clasp fasten the piece. Wonderful craftsmanship and significant meaning make this brooch special. Circa 1860. Agate is a type of chalcedony that occurs in bands of different colors and translucencies. Scotland produces many of the world's most beautiful agates, so naturally, the Scots developed a unique style of "pebble" jewelry featuring cut and polished agates set in silver or occasionally gold. The Sailor's Cross has origins in early Christianity; the anchor signifies hope, and the cross signifies faith. Details.....The brooch measures 1.7" by 3.18". In Very Good Antique Condition. You should always expect som