This brooch is set with rose and old mine cut diamonds with open back gold work. Popular in Europe by the 18th century, an open back setting allowed light to pass through, enhancing the sparkle of gems. Jewellery with diamonds set in the latest European gem-set techniques became status symbols. This brooch reportedly belonged to the donor’s grandaunt, Lina Juana Montilla y Montilla (b. 1906).
