This is a rather large floral pin crafted sometime in the early 1940s. It is composed of sterling silver and stunning faceted blue topaz glass. The blue stones are quite special for they were crafted in the Gablonz region of Czechoslovakia.
The design is exceptionally beautiful and quite bold with the pin measuring a significant 3.5”. The background of the design incorporates lovely spring tulips and the foreground pops with the bright blue of the Forget Me Not flowers retailer. The composition is a remarkable highly detailed work. It has the flavor of the Art Nouveau period of jewelry design when inspiration was derived from the natural world.
Czechoslovakian Glass Gemstones:
When this pin was crafted, Czechoslovakia was the leading producer and exporter of glass gemstones. Czechoslovakian stones were renowned for their quality, color and precision faceting. They were crafted to trick the eye and were made by expert glass makers. These faux stones dominated the jewelry industry from 1850 to 1950.
Interesting Facts About Tulips:
Originally from Persia and Turkey, tulips were brought to Europe in the 16th century, where they got their common name from the Turkish word for gauze (with which turbans were wrapped) - reflecting the turban-like appearance of a tulip in full bloom. By the 17th century, the popularity of tulips, particularly in the Netherlands, became so great that the price of a single bulb soared to new heights, causing markets to crash and putting into motion "tulip mania."
Although different tulip colors carry distinct meanings - yellow tulips symbolizing cheerful thoughts, white conveying forgiveness and purple representing royalty - a Turkish legend may be responsible for the red tulip's symbolism. The story goes that a prince named Farhad was love struck by a maiden named Shirin. When Farhad learned that Shirin had been killed, he was so overcome with grief that he killed himself - riding his horse over the edge of a cliff. It's said that a scarlet tulip sprang up from each droplet of his blood, giving the red tulip the meaning "perfect love." The 11th wedding anniversary flower, it's said that the tulip's velvety black center represents a lover's heart, darkened by the heat of passion. With the power to rival roses in their red variety and the sweet charm to express simple joy when yellow, it's no wonder that in addition to all its other symbolism, in the language of flowers, a tulip bouquet represents elegance and grace.
Please review the photos carefully and email with any questions you may have prior to making a purchase.
Enjoy.
Product code: Huge 1940s Art Nouveau-Sterling Silver Tulip & Forget retailer Me Not Floral Brooch 3.5”