15ct seed pearl starburst pendant/brooch - Australian made over 120 years ago! Collectors piece.

This is one of those pieces that makes you stop. Not simply because it is beautiful, but because something this extraordinary has travelled through more than a century and arrived here in such remarkable condition. (pendant/brooch only - chains are for styling purposes only).

Made in Melbourne by Willis & Sons in the early 20th century, likely circa 1904–1914, this spectacular Australian Edwardian starburst feels almost impossibly romantic. Eight long golden points radiate from its centre, set with 41 graduated seed pearls that become progressively smaller as they travel towards the tips. A 42nd pearl sits in the detachable bale. Remarkably, all 42 remain — a testament to the craftsmanship of a jewel made more than a century ago.

There is romance in the choice of pearls, too. In the late Victorian and Edwardian world, seed pearls were associated with purity, innocence and youth, and were considered especially appropriate jewellery for young unmarried women. The grander old-cut diamond starbursts of the era tended to belong to the jewellery wardrobes of married women, for whom wearing important diamonds was considered more socially appropriate. It makes you wonder who this beautiful pearl star was first gifted to all those years ago.

At its heart sits a larger pearl surrounded by a beautiful cluster, creating an extraordinary celestial burst. Stars carried associations of light and guidance, while the eight-pointed star has long been connected with renewal and regeneration — rather perfect for a jewel beginning another chapter more than a century later.

The reverse tells another part of its story. The unicorn head — taken from the Willis family crest — followed by 15 and the capital W is the recognised Willis & Sons mark used after the company was incorporated in 1904. Although hallmarked 15ct, XRF testing revealed a fascinating construction detail: the base tests at 15ct gold, while the pearl-set upper section tests at 18ct gold.

Then there is the ingenuity. The pearl-set bale slides completely from a tiny hook on the reverse, transforming the pendant into a brooch — exactly as its original owner could have worn it more than a century ago.

Perhaps it was given to a young woman to mark a birthday, an engagement or another important moment in her life. We can never know. What we do know is that someone treasured it enough for its 42 delicate pearls, fine golden points and clever fittings to survive more than a century.

And now it gets to be worn again.

What an extraordinary piece of Australian jewellery history to have found.

GOLDEN GIRL NOTICE and T&Cs: All measurements and weights are approximate. These are preloved vintage pieces that have been carefully curated for you to enjoy for years to come. Antique and vintage jewellery may have imperfections or age-related wear which adds to its charm and character. I will mention and photograph any major imperfections in the description and photographs. Photographs form part of the description. All pieces are examined by my jeweller before being sent. Pieces cannot be returned due to change of mind.

Details: Weighs 4.7g  - 15ct seed pearl brooch/necklace. XRF tests 15ct underneath and 18ct on top. 42 seed pearls. 3.5cm W x 4.7cm tall (including bale) Stamped Unicorn head, 15ct W - 4.5cm across - Excellent antique condition. Need to make sure the clasp is pushed up into the pin holder if using as an extender. This is an antique piece and due care is essential due to its age.

Jewellery Care: Clean gently with a soft clean cloth and avoid harsh chemicals and abrasives. Store in a pouch or jewellery box to prevent scratches.

This is an antique or vintage piece - please handle with care to preserve its condition for future generations to love and enjoy. This is an antique or vintage piece - please handle with care and do not wear it to bed in order to preserve its condition for future generations to love and enjoy.