A mid-eighteenth century portuguese demi parure consisting of a pendant brooch and pair of earrings in girandole form, set with foiled topaz and accented with rose cut diamonds in closed-back silver setting, with fitted box, circa 1760.

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.