Three-Leaf Clover Scottish Pebble Brooch

This Victorian pebble brooch in the form of a three-leaf clover emphasizes the natural beauty and variety of Scottish agate. Thin slabs of colorful cut and polished agate are flush-set in a three-lobed frame of sterling silver. A silver ring bands an open circle at the clover's center, and engraved paw-like prongs hold the agate in its frame. A curly little stem completes this charming, all original brooch. Slate backing, c-clasp and a particularly long pin indicate this is an earlier piece. Circa 1850. 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. Queen Victoria loved all things Scottish; after she bought Balmoral Castle in 1848, fashionable English ladies sought to emulate her style by making Scottish pebble jewels popular throughout her reign