Micro Mosaic brooch by Castellani, Master Jeweller of the 19th Century

Castellani - Castellani's first shop was opened in Rome in the year 1814. Specialising in recreating jewellery of ancient craftsmen, particularly the Etruscans, his work became fashionable and highly sought after in 19th-century Europe and America. The Castellani shop catered to the aristocracy and the so-called grand tourists.

Many of Castellani's jewellery designs are based on archaeological evidence and often incorporated cameos, intaglios, and micromosaics (like the one pictured) into his pieces. The Castellani dynasty spanned three generations, and nowadays, Castellani is one of the big names in antique jewellery that is most sought after and very rare to find.

Although not immediately apparent, these are not Latin but Greek letters. The letters EY stand for "good health," but they could also be interpreted as the abbreviation for "Eternally Yours." It would also make a bold and classy corporate gift for a company like Ernst & Young.

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Click here to see this magnificent Castellani brooch.