Antique Labradorite Diamond Enamel and Gold Monkey Head Stick Pin, Circa 1920

An antique monkey stick pin, with a pale grey, carved, labradorite monkey head, with rose-cut diamond eyes, in rub over settings, with a white enamel collar and black enamel bow tie, on a gold hemisphere, with a scratched inventory mark, with a polished gold pin, circa 1920.

During the late nineteenth century, monkeys were a popular motif, due to their exotic and unusual appearance. Labradorite was particularly favoured for monkey heads and faces, used in jewellery, most often seen in stickpins and charms. The carvings were often given an eerie, macabre appearance. They were usually adorned with gemstones and set in precious metals. Labradorite monkeys still have their appeal in the modern day, making antique and vintage pieces quite collectible.