Armenian Vermeil Brooch, 19th Century

Armenian vermeil brooch, 19th century.

Vermeil is a technique that arose in the 19th century, when sterling silver was coated with gold. Vermeil is also made by gilding, but it requires a thicker layer of gold. Another name for it is gilded silver.

The brooch is cross-shaped, with an openwork floral element at the top. The cross carries 6 round settings with decorated rims holding light-coloured stones, with small star-shaped ornaments between them.