A late eighteenth century foiled topaz brooch, with topaz set with copper foil in closed-back silver setting in girandole form, c-clasp and pendant loop to the reverse, width 2.5 in, length 2.5 in, circa 1780

Eighteenth century Portuguese jewelry reached a zenith of excellence and attractiveness hitherto unparalleled. Certain distinctive patterns are observed, particularly the girandole, named for an ornamental branched candlestick, consisting of three drops suspended from a decorative central piece. Some pieces were set with colored stones such as chrysoberyl, topaz, and amethyst, while others were set with paste or colorless crystals, known in Portugal as 'minas novas.' The stones are often magnificently varied in size and shape, and these pieces are rare and highly prized by knowledgeable collectors.