A FOCUS ON AUSTRALIAN JEWELLERY

BY RUTHERFORD

1. This c. 1900 T-bar and locket with hallmarks for 15ct and Melbourne and with the thistle maker's mark of Robert Robertson & Sons. In 1866 the Victorian government imposed a duty on jewellery entering the colony which was beneficial to local manufacturers. Mr Robertson’s business expanded and by 1887 was employing 50 people. Read more here:

2. This silver collar style necklace by Edward Fischer has a subtle gilt wash which gives a warmth to the silver. Mr Fischer migrated to Australia from Vienna in the early 1850’s and settled in Geelong. In 1865 he famously made the first locally produced Melbourne Cup. Read more here:

3. Made by William Davis, c. 1900, this 9ct rose gold locket signet ring has a photograph inside of the most beautiful woman with pink flowers in her hair. Mr Davis was a foundation member of the Melbourne Jewellers’ Association of Victoria and used as his mark a leopard’s head. Read more here:

Find these beautiful pieces of history and other unique items at Rutherfords stand at the AAADA Antiques & Art Fair Melbourne