9k Gold Pounamu Nephrite Jade Axe Pin Brooch New Zealand Antique Tucson Estate

From a Skyline Country Club estate here in Tucson is this antique I believe Victorian New Zealand 9K colonial yellow gold and nephrite jade axe pin brooch, a superior example of a well referenced genre. The ornament comprises a beautiful rod of the translucent greenstone "Pounamu" gem, here fitted with a jeweler wrought axe head and end cap. Well accomplished decorative engraving serves to elevate these gold mounts - the original and period correct "T" pin and "C" clasp are still present.

There is a clear "9Ct" gold indication and maker mark within an incuse rectangle to the back of the axe blade. Greenstone brooches and pins were de rigueur 19th and early 20th Century finery for New Zealand visitors and locals as well, though the majority of surviving versions do not rise to the level of this one.

Weight is good for the form at about 4.2 grams on my portable digital scale. Condition is quite fine with a nice aura of time to the surfaces. The jade is exceedingly well preserved, and the gold shows little if any evidence of purposeful wearing - it appears this was acquired during the period, and then simply stored away for numerous decades. The T-pin and C-clasp work exactly as they should. While I typically nitpick for the obsessive, I see nothing to mention for accuracy.

A look at the pics should give a good idea of appearance and condition. Size is about 2 1/2 in.

Wide at the axe head. If you prefer antique gold adornment for the history and road less travelled, or simply wish a single immediate improvement to the ambiance of someone's day, this will have great meaning for you. This item is in the category "Jewelry & Watches\Vintage & Antique Jewelry\Brooches & Pins". The seller is "pooterpee" and is located in this country: US.

This item can be shipped to United States.

• Brand: Estate
• Type: Brooch
• Metal: Yellow Gold
• Metal Purity: 9k
• Signed: Yes
• Antique: Yes
• Handmade: Yes
• Main Stone: Nephrite Jade