Georgian Acrostic Regard Brooch

A rare antique Georgian acrostic brooch circa 1820, crafted in 14k yellow, rose and green gold designed as a floral plaque with "Regard" spelled out in genuine gemstones, the first letter of each gem providing the letters of the word: Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, Ruby, Diamond.

Details: Measuring approximately 1 1/2" east to west and 15/16" north to south. The back contains a small compartment with a glass cover holding a swatch of woven hair; while woven hair was often used for mourning jewelry this particular piece would have been intended as a love token, and likely holds the hair of the giver. Not marked for gold content but professionally tests to 14k, the pin stem is steel.

Condition: In excellent condition with a rich antique patina and very minimal wear to the gems. The hinge and c-clasp are in strong working order.

History: Acrostic jewelry first shows up around the turn of the 19th century, some believe it was Marie Antoinette's jeweler who concieved the idea, some say Napolean's. Developed as a way to send a discreet love token message through a piece of jewelry with the first letter of the gemstone's name spelling out the word or phrase, the concept remained popular through the Victorian and Edwardian era, with words like "dearest", "Love", "regard" and "Amor".