Victorian Scroll and Garland Old Cut Diamond Tiara

Dating from the second half of the 19th-century this tiara showcases superb Victorian design and craftsmanship. At this time silver was primarily used to set diamonds, which was backed in gold to ensure that any tarnish did not mark the skin. Set with an array of romantically sparkling old cut diamonds dramatic curving scroll and garland motifs stand atop an elegant line of diamonds. These neo-classical forms were greatly admired during the Victorian and earlier Georgian periods becoming perfectly suited to define statement tiara designs. Fixed to a frame the rich history of this jewel is evident when viewed from behind as we can see that larger vertical top elements have been removed at some point in its history. This could have been during the Art Deco period when tiaras started to be worn lower on the forehead. Tiaras have always been expensive additions to jewellery collections with examples produced during this period showcasing large and valuable diamonds and gemstones. During the latter years of Queen Victoria's reign, the Prince and Princess of Wales hosted many lavish balls at both Marlborough House in London and Sandringham House in Norfolk where tiaras were a focal point.