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A fascinating mid-19th century colonial Australian 18ct gold and seed pearl brooch is up for auction at Fellows in Birmingham. The alluring piece, depicting a kangaroo and emu amongst foliage, is a perfect representation of historic Australian jewellery and has an estimate of £1,500 – £2,000 in Fellows’ Fine Jewellery sale, taking place in Birmingham on Thursday 30th January 2020. With Australia Day looming, Lot 454 is a historic piece of animal-incorporated jewellery which is set to be sought-after in Fellows’ upcoming sale. Australian jewellery of the 19th and 20th century has become increasingly popular at auction in recent years. Naturalistic jewellery was created in a variety of styles by skilled goldsmiths who incorporated beautiful depictions which are symbolic of Australia. Flowers and animals were popular designs, and the origin of the pieces is perfectly represented by their instantly recognisable stunning gold surround. This particular 18ct gold example has a length of 2.9cms and weighs 4.2gms. A mid 19th century colonial Australian 18ct gold and seed pearl brooch, depicting a kangaroo and emu amongst foliage. In January 2019, Fellows sold a similar brooch for just under £10,000 (£9,314.80 including fees). Following a frantic bidding war, last year’s brooch sold for over ten times its estimate, which is an example of how popular historic Australian brooches currently are at auction. The brooch going under the hammer on 30th January is one of many highlights in what is set to be a popular first flagship auction of the year for Fellows. Alex Duffy, Jewellery Specialist at Fellows Auctioneers, said: “It is a pleasure to be able to offer another of these rare and unusual pieces for auction and with Australia day coming up, this makes for the perfect purchase to celebrate the nation’s culture. Nature has always provided unrivalled inspiration for art and jewellery, being forever subjected and abstracted in its various forms. The native flora and fauna expertly crafted within this brooch illustrates the admiration we have for our beautiful planet. It is important that we seek to promote and protect these natural treasures that have provided us with so much.” The Fine Jewellery sale is now available to view online and in person at the following times: 25 January 11am-4pm (Birmingham) 28 January 10am-4pm (Birmingham) 29 January 10am-4pm (Birmingham) 30 January 8.30am-11am (Birmingham) Photo ID is required