This must be one of the most exquisite pieces of silver jewelry I have, or have ever had! There are two European style hallmarks on the back which are difficult to decipher. However, based on some tips I've received and the research that followed, I feel confident in describing the piece as Austro-Hungarian silver circa 1870. It's unclear who the jeweler was yet this brooch is so rich in quality and detail that it doesn't much matter who made it! The bird has a stunning tail with many plumes which are dotted with cobalt blue glass cabochons of varied sizes. Each feather was treated with hand carved grooves which give them a realistic texture. Beneath his little feet is a natural red coral branch which is held securely with a delicate leaf that wraps around from behind. For his body, the jeweler used a huge and gorgeous pear-shaped pearl with a miraculous, even luster. The wing and throat are dotted with beautiful little seed pearls which amazingly are all present! His regal crown of feathers have four more cobalt glass cabochons and his eye is set with a very realistic tiny glass bead. It's an incredibly small detail that seems to bring him to life! The proportions are precise and the minute details throughout put this piece of jewelry in a category all its own. And as if you didn't already love everything about him...on the back there are three small loops or openings where you can insert a real feather! It's undeniably a work of art and definitely worthy of being added to someone's collection. He is quite wearable as well and was meant to be shown off! So hopefully his new owner will wear him proudly. From head to tail he measures about 3". The widest part of his tail is 3/4". The coral branch is 1" long and from the top of the branch he stands about 1-5/8" tall. The pin mechanism measures 7/8" from the hinge to the catch. The pin is sturdy and sits tightly in the catch. To give a further sense of his quality his weight is 22.1 grams. Please do zoom in on the photos to really appreciate all the texture and hand work that went into making this extraordinary piece of jewelry!