All of us at Isadoras love animals, so it is only natural that we have a special connection with the inspirational animal jewelry in our antique heirloom collection.

 

Animals have been a popular motif throughout the entire history of jewelry.

 

The first animal ornaments can be traced back over 4,500 years ago to the Sumerians, who buried Queen Puabi with gold and lapis lazuli fish-shaped amulets, and a gold amulet fashioned into two joined antelopes.

Fast forward to the Victorian Era – by the late 1800s, the rapid development of science and technology caused a population shift from rural areas to cities. Against the backdrop of polluted rivers and poison factory smoke, nature was seen as a healthy alternative. The middle class romantic fascination with nature - animals, insects, and plants - was manifested in jewelry, art, and science.

 

 

When we think of famous, midcentury animal jewelry, one name readily comes to mind – Wallis Simpson. The Duke of Windsor lavished Simpson with jewelry, and the sentimental collection of Cartier cats were pieces that she and her husband co-designed with Jeanne Toussaint. Simpson’s incredible crouching panther is possibly one of the most illustrious bracelets in the world.

 

 

And, for fun (and because it is so cool) – below, is the amazing midcentury double-crocodile necklace designed by Cartier for actress Maria Felix.

 

The crocodile necklace features 1,023 fancy yellow diamonds and 1,060 circular-cut emeralds.

From the glorious ornamentation found in Queen Puabi’s tomb, to the Victorian fascination with nature, to the midcentury Cartier panthers designed for Wallis Simpson, antique animal jewelry has made a profound statement not only about the era in which it was crafted, but also about those for whom it was designed.

 

 

Take a look at some of our favorite vintage animal pieces from our heirloom collection – naturally inspired and exceptionally beautiful.

 

Top:  Victorian Lion Head Pendant

Lower Left:  Victorian Snake Diamond Ring

Lower Right:  Antique French 18KT Bird Brooch

 

Top:  Edwardian Silver Animal Cufflinks

Lower Left:  Vintage Marlin Fish Pins

Lower Right:  Vintage Marcasite Bird Brooch

Top:  Victorian Gold Lion Bracelet

Lower Left:  Circa 1970s Lion Head Ring

Lower Right:  Tiffany 18KT Dolphin Brooch

Top:  Silver Bull Belt Buckle

Lower Left:  Victorian Butterfly Brooch

Lower Right:  Vintage Silver Horse Cufflinks

 

If you have any questions, you can reach our knowledgeable staff at 206.441.7711, or e-mail Isadoras Antique Jewelry at info@isadoras.com.

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