Iridescent insects were imported en masse from South America to satisfy England's obsession with an ancient Egyptian motif: the scarab beetle. Real scarab beetles (aka dung beetles) look nothing like these shiny green guys, but no big deal to the to Egyptophile who wore this pin. Authenticity wasn't top of mind; vibes were. This insect is perfectly preserved in its 100+ year old gold setting - and it comes in its original leatherette box.
MATERIALS: 9k gold (marked), beetle, original leatherette box
AGE: Chester assay marks for 1922
CONDITION: Very good - British hallmarks; comes in its original box
SIZE: 1 1/2"