Cat brooches have been popular for centuries. Cats were an important part of Ancient Egyptian culture and the goddess Bastet was often depicted as a cat.
During the middle ages cats had a bad reputation as they were often associated with witchcraft. Thankfully, that passed and they became popular household pets as well as popular depictions in art and jewelry.
Below are some examples and price guides of cat brooches including an emerald and diamond cat brooch and a French clip brooch.
EMERALD AND DIAMOND CAT BROOCH
BROCHE CHAT EMERAUDES ET DIAMANTS
- French assay mark for 18 carat yellow gold (750°/00)
- Representing a sitting gold cat
- 2 circular-cut emeralds
- 5 single-cut diamonds weighing approximately 0.05-0.07 carat total
- Partial maker’s mark
- Measurements: 3.60 x 2.50 cm
- Gross weight: 15.48 grams
Sold for€960 inc. premium at Bonhams in 2024
LATE 19TH CENTURY DIAMOND AND ENAMEL CAT BROOCH
Rose-cut diamonds, enamel tongue and teeth, glass eyes, silver and gold, closed setting, circa 1890
Size/Dimensions: 3.2 x 2.8 cm
Gross weight: 21.4 grams
Sold for GBP 22,680 at Christie’s in 2023
Péry et Fils Gold, Black Onyx, Cabochon Emerald and Diamond Cat Clip-Brooch, France
One oval black onyx, one round cabochon emerald eye, 5 small round diamonds, with maker’s marks and French assay marks, ap. 11.2 dwts.
Sold for $2,176 including premium at Doyle in 2024
Tiffany & Co. 18kt Gold Cat Brooch
Tiffany & Co. 18kt yellow gold cat form brooch displaying a pair of round faceted emerald eyes, and a pave diamond encrusted white gold collar. Emeralds measure approx. 3.0mm each. Stamped, “Tiffany & Co. 18K” verso. Total approx. weight of the brooch is 13.0 dwt (gross).
Sold for US$1,100 at Clarke Auction Gallery in 2024
1963 ENGLISH 18K GOLD RUBY EMERALD CAT BROOCH BY HANS GEORGE MAUTNER
Sold for US$4,500 at Mynt Auctions in 2024
