Vintage Tom An antique swallow brooch

A Victorian brooch in the shape of three swallows, each set with small seed pearls. No marks to indicate the carat, tests as 15 carat gold.

Overall size 40x12mm, weight 3.5grams. Safety chain attached.

The meaning behind swallow jewellery is completely and utterly romantic. – swallows mate for life and are said to always go back to their nest. The swallow is associated with loyalty, love, and peace. The swallow itself is a very joyful, hopeful, and decisive bird. I think many of us would like to think that the swallow is their spirit animal – ‘I Will Return’

It is believed that swallows lead ships home when they were coming into port, and prevented the crew from getting lost. Because of this connotation, swallows often represent faithfulness and a wish for your loved one to return home to you safely. An item with a swallow on it was often given to loved one when they set out on a journey. An item of swallow jewellery was also given to loved ones who were seeing a loved one off, to express ‘I will return’. This piece of jewellery would be thoroughly cherished while the loved one was away. It even became a sort of symbol associated with World War One as it was often gifted during this period to family members or loved ones.

Age or Designation

Victorian (1839-1901)

Precious Stone

Pearl

Metal Type

Gold