Information and history of Scottish agate plus a gallery of Scottish agate used in antique and vintage brooches. In the early years of the 19th century, the poetry and novels of Sir Walter Scott put Scotland on the tourist map. Queen Victoria and Prince Albert were very fond of Scotland. Scottish pebble jewellery, already fashionable in the 18th century, became a popular souvenir. Birmingham jewellers responded to the demand, sometimes using stones from countries other than Scotland. Reference: Victoria & Albert Museum
A Victorian Scottish agate brooch Of circular form entering on a cross, with engraved Celtic motifs and bead detailing, set with vari-coloured agate plaques, mounted in gold, diameter 38mm
Sold for £ 625 inc. premium at Bonhams in 2017
Antique Scottish Agate and Citrine Brooch and Two Antique Brooches Gold, silver, one enamel and black onyx bead pendant missing, ap. 43 dwt.
Sold for $1,500 (includes buyer’s premium) at Doyle New York in 2011
Victorian Scottish Agate Brooch Pendant. Piece can be worn as either a brooch or a pendant. C clasp closure. In excellent condition. Very little wear, circa 1880. About two inches in diameter.
Sold for $190 at Appraisal & Estate Sale Specialists, Inc. in 2018
Brooch,Scotland, Edinburgh, about 1880; made by G. & M. Crichton. Gold with bloodstone, red jasper and agate
This brooch was made by the Edinburgh jeweller, G&M Crichton who exhibited jewellery at the London Exhibition of 1872. Although their designs received some praise from critics, one commented that the “Highland shoulder-brooches…” were ” extravagant in the amount of relief in the details…”
Victoria & Albert Museum
A late 19th century gold Scottish agate and gem-set brooch. Of stylised penannular design, the varied agate crescent, with pearl, aquamarine and garnet terminals, all with scrolling engraved surrounds. Length 6cms. Weight 17.2gms. Pearls untested.
Overall condition fair to good. Some surface scratches / wear, discolouration and minor dents in keeping with general age and wear. Replacement clasp. Pearls untested for natural, saltwater or freshwater origin. Pearls are a well matched white to cream hue, fair lustre. Garnets are a deepfairly purplish red hue. Aquamarine are a pale light blue and slightly greenish blue. Gems with minor nicks and scratches.
Sold for £480 at Fellows in 2018
