Objects of the Day: A Pair of Victorian Turnbuckle Cufflinks

This pair of cufflinks is very special to me. A gift from my parents, they’re my favorites. With their late Victorian “turnbuckle” design defined by a pattern of intricate volutes, they’re a testament to the brilliant work of Nineteenth Century jewelers.


The gorgeous gold-work is accentuated by two rose-cut diamonds which are set into incised stars. Rose-cut diamonds were often backed by foil to maximize the stone’s brilliance in low light. And, they certainly do sparkle.