This graceful antique Art Nouveau pendant, set with garnet and pearls in 9ct yellow gold, dates from circa 1900 to 1910. It is signed by Hanman & Wills of George Street, Sydney, a respected early 20th-century Australian jeweller.
The dual use pendant, doubling as a brooch, exemplifies classic Art Nouveau jewellery design. Characterised by fluid, organic lines and nature-inspired motifs typical of early 20th century jewellery. The gold framework forms a symmetrical yet flowing arrangement of scrolling tendrils, resembling vines or botanical forms rather than rigid geometric structure. This emphasis on movement and natural curves is central to the Art Nouveau aesthetic.
At the centre sits a round green garnet glass doublet, faceted to reflect light with depth and vibrancy. A second matching green doublet appears as a suspended pear-shaped drop beneath the main body, adding visual balance and gentle movement when worn. The green tones contrast beautifully with the warm yellow gold setting, creating a striking antique gold brooch of distinctive character.
Green garnets were exceptionally scarce in the early 1900s, and stones of this vibrancy, depth of colour, and size were particularly uncommon. These garnets are crafted as doublets, with the gemstone carefully adhered to glass, a specialised technique employed by jewellers during the early 20th century, with origins tracing back to the Georgian era.
Surrounding the scrollwork are 44 natural half pearls, each delicately bead-set into the gold. The pearls introduce a soft lustre that complements the brilliance of the central stones while enhancing the organic feel of the design. Their placement along the flowing curves creates a sense of rhythm and refinement characteristic of fine Art Nouveau jewellery.
The combination of luminous pearls, vivid green doublets, and intricate goldwork produces a harmonious and decorative composition typical of the period. Signed examples from Hanman & Wills are increasingly sought after within the field of Australian antique jewellery for their historical and regional significance.
This piece represents a refined example of antique Art Nouveau gold jewellery, combining elegance, craftsmanship, and period authenticity in a wearable and highly collectible brooch.
Circa: 1900 - 1910
Design Period: Art Nouveau
Gemstone: Green Garnet Glass Doublets and Natural Half Pearls
Stone Construction: Composite Doublets
Cut: Faceted Round Centre & Faceted Pear-Shaped Drop
Pearl Type: Natural Half Pearls
Pearl Count: 44
Metal: 9ct Yellow Gold
Maker: Hanman & Wills, George Street, Sydney
Origin: Australian
Construction: Dual Use - Pendant and Brooch
Motifs: Flowing Scrollwork and Botanical Forms
Pendant Length: 52.00 mm
Pendant Width: 34.00 mm
Accompanied by an independent Ian Abeshouse Valuation
