Description

This Edwardian sapphire and diamond bar brooch dates to the early 20th century and combines platinum with yellow gold. It features three round blue sapphires alongside old cut and rose cut diamonds in a finely pierced linear setting. Most importantly, the brooch retains a handwritten provenance note stating that it was left to Ruth Jean Hollins by her grandmother, Lady Hollins, who died in 1934. That reference appears to relate to Dora Emily Susan Hollins, wife of Sir Frank Hollins, 1st Baronet of Greyfriars, Preston. Dora died on 18 December 1934, which closely supports the family note accompanying the brooch.

Design & Craftsmanship

The early 20th century brooch has the long, narrow proportions associated with Edwardian bar jewellery. Three round sapphires punctuate the design, with the largest sapphire placed centrally and smaller examples positioned towards each end. Meanwhile, old cut diamonds provide brighter focal points between the sapphires. Delicate rose cut diamonds sit within elongated, milgrained navette-shaped sections, which add texture without making the design feel heavy. Platinum forms the pale upper setting, while yellow gold appears beneath and around parts of the construction. Consequently, the different metals provide both strength and the subtle two-tone character often seen in period jewellery. The pierced framework also keeps the brooch light and refined.

Why We Love This Brooch

The provenance makes this brooch particularly interesting. The accompanying note connects it with the Hollins family of Greyfriars, Preston, rather than leaving its history anonymous. Sir Frank Hollins was head of Horrockses, Crewdson & Co. and became the 1st Baronet Hollins of Greyfriars in 1907. Historic England also records Greyfriars as the Hollins family home. At the same time, the jewel stands on its own merit. The sapphire and diamond combination has strong period character, while the restrained proportions make it highly wearable today. Because the piece retains both its antique construction and documented family association, it offers the type of history that gives antique jewellery genuine depth.

How to Style

This Edwardian sapphire and diamond bar brooch suits someone who values provenance, traditional craftsmanship and jewellery with a documented past. Its slim profile works particularly well on a jacket lapel, blouse, knitwear or scarf. It can also sit neatly across a neckline without feeling bulky. Meanwhile, the blue sapphires bring subtle colour, while the platinum and diamonds keep the overall look refined. Sapphire is also the September birthstone, so the brooch has additional appeal as a distinctive birthday gift for a collector of antique jewellery.

Key Features

• MATERIALS: 18ct yellow gold, platinum, diamond
• DIMENSIONS: Approx 75mm x 4mm.
• ERA/HALLMARK: Edwardian era. Hand written note in original box shows provenance.
• WEIGHT: 3.42g
• CONDITION: The brooch is in excellent antique condition with surface wear consistent with age and previous use. The sapphires and diamonds remain securely set, while the pierced framework, pin and fastening are intact. The original handwritten provenance note has also been retained with the piece, which is an important part of its history. Overall, the brooch presents well and is ready to wear and comes in its original box.

SHIPPING – UK ORDERS: Orders received before 11am Monday-Friday UK time will be dispatched the same day. This is via Royal Mail Special Delivery which is a fully tracked and insured service and will require a signature on arrival.

INTERNATIONAL ORDERS:
Please allow 1-2 days processing time. For orders under £350 we use Royal Mail International Tracked and Traced, with delivery around 7-10 days. For orders above £350 we use a door to door courier service with delivery between 3-7 days depending on location.

You will receive a tracking number for accurate delivery information. We are not responsible for any import duty or VAT on delivery, this rate varies in different countries so please get in touch with your local customs office for more information.

Our jewellery comes packaged in a beautiful black faux leather box and black branded gift bag.

RETURNS:
We do accept returns provided they are returned within 14 days from receiving the item. We will issue a full refund minus the shipping cost.

We will provide a return address and this must be returned at the cost of the customer using a fully insured, tracked and signed for service.

The item must be returned exactly as it was sent, unaltered and undamaged and in the original packaging. This must be marked clearly as a return, otherwise we reserve the right to deduct any import charges made to us from the refund on all international orders.

We do not accept returns on sale items or alterations including ring sizings.