Aurora Crescent

This bow brooch is Art Nouveau through and through — opals, worn thin at the back where a hand has turned it for a century, set in chased naturalistic goldwork. It is back-carved so the light enters from behind — the maker's quiet trick. We bought it from a Delft estate, with the original receipt still tucked inside the lid. It asks very little of whoever wears it next and gives back a great deal.