We have long had a “thing” for antique French regional jewelry — including the Saint-Esprit jewels that are typically associated with Normandy, France.

These Norman Saint-Esprits were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, and are usually comprised of a descending dove grasping an olive branch in its beak. The dove is suspended nearly always from a bow ornament. Aside from the religious associations, in a secular sense, we can view this as symbolic of an offering of peace, represented by the dove and the olive branch.

Our Saint-Esprit is indeed exceptional. We have seen many Saint-Esprits in silver and paste, but this is the first and only of this size that we have seen set with diamonds — in this case, approximately 291 fine quality rose cuts. The significant scale, the fine rose cut diamonds, the lacy, intricate silverwork, the rarity — chef’s kiss! This jewel is likely one of one — so special and striking, whether worn for faith or simply for its beauty.

We acquired this jewel as a brooch, with a removable, screw-in pin fitting. We suspect there was originally an interchangeable pendant fitting, so we had our talented bench create one, with no alteration to the condition or integrity of the piece. The pendant fitting can be swapped for the brooch fitting via the scew mechanism. Now, this jewel is ready to be enjoyed as much as possible — as a brooch or pendant, as the mood strikes. (The pendant fitting is shown in the last photo).

We favor wearing this on a simple black ribbon around the neck, or get creative in wearing this as a brooch, elevating any garment (imagine this on an evening jacket)!

Chain shown is not included.

Unmarked.

Silver, diamond (antique rose cut).

Dimensions and weight:

● 93 mm long

● 47.7 mm wide

● 3.4 mm deep

● 5.82 ctw diamond (approximately 291 fine quality antique rose cuts); F color, predominantly VS clarity

● 32.4 grams (with the brooch fitting)

Period: 19th Century (we believe this to be early 19th century)

*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present. Under magnification, we note that a thin layer of a clear “varnish” was applied to the back, perhaps to prevent tarnish/tarnish transfer to the skin or clothing. This is not readily discernible. We have not attempted to remove, and we do not recommend attempting to do so.

** Additional note/information: If you have the book, “Traditional French Jewellery” by Michael C.W. Fieggen, please refer to pages 156-57 for a fuller discussion on Saint-Esprit pendants. There, you can see some beautiful examples, in silver and rarer gold, all in paste. If you do not have the book, similar information is included in the author’s online reference at http://www.bijouxregionaux.fr/en/contenu.php?idcontenu=15). We created the period appropropriate interchangeable bail attachment with reference to the examples viewed at these sources. Also see the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum for 18th and early 19th century examples at: https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O117989/pendant-unknown/ and at https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O117986/pendant-unknown/.

*** For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.

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