Antique Ruby and Diamond Crescent Brooch, Circa 1895

An antique ruby and diamond crescent brooch, set with nine, oval faceted rubies, graduating in size, alternating with eight, pairs of old-cut diamonds, terminating with a single old-cut diamond at each end, in crown claw settings on the outer side and a knife edge setting and flat side on the inner side, mounted in gold. With pin and 'C' catch fitting, and a pendant loop. In Victorian symbolism the crescent or new moon represented a new relationship. Hopeful it will "wax" into matrimony, circa 1895.