'Cinnamon Girl' Hamilton & Co. 18-Carat Gold, Garnet, and Pearl Bird on a Nest Brooch

This is a very rare 18-carat gold, garnet, and pearl brooch made by renowned jeweller from bygone days, Hamilton & Co Ltd, Jewellers-Silversmiths of Calcutta & New Delhi.  It comes complete in its original leather and velvet box.

Perched on a woven, golden nest, this charming and very rare 18-carat gold bird-on-a-nest brooch captures a quiet, whimsical moment in miniature.  The bird's plump body is formed from a rich cabochon garnet, its deep wine-red hue catching the light with a soft, polished glow, while a single ruby is set as its eye, giving the face a bright, lifelike spark. The head, crest, and wing are finished in finely textured 18-carat gold with delicate hand-engraved feather detailing that adds to the dimension and craftsmanship of the design.  She sits perky over her nest, which is comprises a basket of woven gold wire cradling three 'eggs' made of lustrous cultured pearls.  This is a design rich with symbolism, evoking nurture, new beginnings, and homecoming, while remaining a playful statement piece that can be worn any day and every day.

Hamilton & Co. Ltd was a British-founded jewellers and silversmiths established in Calcutta in 1808, later expanding to New Delhi and select Indian cities. Renowned for the elegance and craftsmanship of its work, the firm held a royal warrant as 'Jewellers and Silversmiths to the Viceroy of India' and was patronized by both the British administration and Indian royalty. Often likened to Tiffany or Cartier for its standing among European aristocracy visiting India, Hamilton & Co. became one of the most celebrated names in colonial-era jewelry and silverwork. The company remained in operation until 1973, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional gold and silver artistry.

This brooch is a wonderful example of figural jewellery at its best, this brooch would suit a collector drawn to novelty pieces, or perhaps, a mother of three or grandmother-to-be!