Antique Victorian Gold Owl Stick Pin with Old Mine-Cut Diamond Eyes
A Victorian Gold Owl with Expressive Old Mine-Cut Diamond Eyes
This captivating Victorian gold owl stick pin is modeled with remarkable sculptural detail, from the deeply engraved feathers to the owl’s pronounced brows, curved beak, and alert expression.
Two old mine-cut diamonds, weighing approximately 0.50 carats in total, form the owl’s luminous eyes. Their softly irregular outlines and antique hand-cut facets give each diamond an individual character, creating a lively sparkle against the richly textured gold.
The owl measures approximately 18 × 18 mm, or 0.71 × 0.71 inches, giving the jewel a substantial presence despite its compact proportions. With a total weight of approximately 8 grams, the piece feels beautifully constructed and reflects the craftsmanship associated with Victorian figural jewelry.
Owls have long symbolized wisdom, intelligence, and watchfulness. Combined with its expressive design and antique diamonds, this unusual stick pin offers both visual character and strong collector appeal. It may be worn traditionally on a tie, cravat, scarf, or lapel, or displayed as part of a collection of Victorian animal jewelry.
Key Features
• Metal: Gold
• Gemstones: Two old mine-cut diamonds
• Total Diamond Weight: Approximately 0.50 carats
• Design: Sculptural owl with diamond-set eyes and engraved feather details
• Style: Victorian figural jewelry
• Measurements: Approximately 18 × 18 mm, or 0.71 × 0.71 inches
• Total Weight: Approximately 8 grams
• Period: Victorian
• Jewelry Type: Stick pin
• Condition: Excellent
Collector’s Note
Victorian jewelry frequently incorporated animals and symbolic motifs, transforming familiar creatures into highly detailed miniature works of art. The owl’s expressive goldwork and pair of old mine-cut diamond eyes make this stick pin an especially distinctive example of antique figural jewelry.
Perfect For
• Collectors of Victorian jewelry
• Antique owl and animal-jewelry collections
• Collectors of old mine-cut diamonds
• Wearing on a lapel, tie, scarf, or cravat
• A distinctive antique heirloom or collector’s gift
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The DSF Promise
Buy with confidence. Every piece is backed by:
• Authenticity — examined and verified before listing
• Condition — carefully inspected and honestly described
• Insured shipping — fully insured, signature required
• 32-day returns — available on eligible, unaltered items
• Private appointments — available in New York
• Experience — over 50 years of fine jewelry expertise
How do I know a piece is authentic, and can I trust DSF?
Buying fine jewelry online takes trust, especially at this level. DSF Antique Jewelry is a New York–based dealer with over 50 years of fine jewelry expertise. Every piece is examined for authenticity and condition before it is listed — we assess hallmarks, maker's marks, metal content, gemstones, and construction consistent with the stated period or designer. For signed pieces such as Cartier, Buccellati, or Van Cleef & Arpels, we verify maker's marks and signatures. We're glad to send additional photographs of any hallmark, or speak with you directly, before you decide.
Why does antique gold look different, and is surface wear normal?
Antique pieces were often made in gold standards less common today, such as 15ct (used in Britain only between 1854 and 1932), 9ct, or higher-karat continental gold, which give a warmer tone than typical modern 14k. Light surface wear, softened edges, and a gentle patina are normal and expected on antique jewelry — they reflect the age and authenticity of the piece, not flaws. We describe the true condition of every item honestly in its listing.
What do the hallmarks and maker's marks mean?
Hallmarks are small stamped marks that identify the metal standard, and often the maker, assay office, and date. They are one of the best tools for authenticating antique jewelry. We identify and explain the marks we find on each piece in its description, and we're happy to send close-up photographs of any hallmark on request so you can see exactly what you're buying.
Can pieces be resized or adjusted?
It depends on the piece. Many antique rings can be resized, but bands with all-around engraving, thin shanks, or gemstones near the base may be limited in how far they can safely go, and some pieces are best left as-is to preserve their integrity. We list each item's measurements as they currently are. If you're unsure whether something can be safely adjusted, contact us before buying and we'll give you an honest assessment for that specific piece.
How should I care for and store fine jewelry?
Clean gently with a soft cloth, avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and chlorine, and store pieces separately so they don't scratch one another. Remove rings and bracelets for heavy manual tasks. Antique gold is softer than modern alloys, so period pieces are best enjoyed with normal care. Treated well, fine antique jewelry lasts for generations — many of our pieces are already a century or more old and still beautiful.
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