An Edwardian aquamarine, diamond, pearl and gold bangle, by Birks, of Canada, with three aquamarines, the central one being an octagonal shaped faceted step-cut, with a natural pearl set north, south, east and west, with a millegrain edged, rub over set Edwardian-cut diamond, either side of each pearl. The two outer aquamarines are emerald-cut and have a natural pearl set above and below, with a rub over set Edwardian-cut diamond either side, with a diamond and pearl on the inner edges and a diamond on the outer edges. The stones are set on a three row knife-edge, hinged bangle, mounted in 18ct gold, signed Birks, stamped 18K, with a box and tongue clasp and fine safety chain, circa 1905.
The Birks family's roots date back to 16th century Sheffield, England, where they were master silversmiths, being part of Cutlers Company. Their corporate maker's mark was a lion passant, in a cushion shaped cartouche, dated 1774. The jewellery business was established, in Canada, by Henry Birks, when he opened a boutique, on St. James Street, in Montreal, in 1879. In 1893 he was joined by his three sons and officially changed the company name to Henry Birks & Sons. In 1894 the company moved to Phillips Square and produced their first catalogue. From 1901 they expanded across Canada, to every major city, becoming an iconic Canadian brand, renowned for quality and fine craftsmanship. In 1907 their Montreal flagship store underwent major expansion. In 1959 the citizens of Montreal presented Queen Elizabeth II with a silver plate, crafted by Birks. In 1998 they were awarded the Diamond International Award for their "La Plume de Cyrano" feather brooch. In 1998 they became one of the first companies to supply Canadian mined diamonds. In 2010 they were the official Jewellers for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Games. Their modern signature collections are inspired by the surrounding Canadian natural environment. Birks are Canada’s leading designer of fine jewellery and the brand is now distributed internationally.
With thanks to Birks' official video for the company history.
