A late eighteenth century portuguese brooch in girandole form, featuring colorless black-dot pastes set closed-back in silver, upper component comprisede of a floral spray, suspending three, pear-shaped drops, newer clasp with safety catch to the reverse, 2 in by 2 in, circa 1790.

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.