Victorian Japanese Shakudo and 18K Rose Gold Small Round Brooch

A Victorian Japanese shakudo small round brooch depicting a bird, set in 18K rose gold. Circa 1875.

Shakudo is an ancient Japanese alloy of gold and copper that is characterized by its velvety purplish-black color. Shakudo and other mixed metal inlays were traditionally used to craft decorative Japanese sword fittings. Some of these sword fittings were incorporated into Western jewelry during the nineteenth century.

• Diameter: 1 1/8 inches