Antique Australian 9ct Yellow Gold Citrine Wishbone, Rose and Clover Brooch Circa 1900

There is something wonderfully hopeful about this hand-crafted, unique piece.

Made in Melbourne by AJ Long & Co of Little Collins Street around 1900, this romantic brooch is overflowing with symbols of luck, optimism, and new beginnings. A graceful wishbone forms the framework of the design, while not one but two four-leaf clovers rest beneath a glowing hand-cut citrine flower framed by delicate golden leaves. 

It‘s talismanic — a tiny wearable blessing from turn-of-the-century Melbourne.

The symbolism becomes even sweeter when placed within its historical moment. Australia was young, newly federated, and full of belief in prosperity and possibility. This brooch quietly captures that same spirit: hopefulness, sentimentality, and faith in bright futures still waiting ahead.

Rendered in warm 9ct yellow gold, the flowing naturalistic lines place the piece firmly within the Art Nouveau movement, where jewellery often drew upon flowers, organic curves, and deeply personal symbolism. The glowing citrine catches the light beautifully, cut by hand with lively antique facets designed to shimmer warmly under candlelight and early electric light.

The reverse carries the original “9CT” stamp alongside the maker’s mark for AJ Long & Co — a respected Melbourne jeweller operating from Little Collins Street during the late Victorian and Edwardian era.

More than a brooch, this feels like a keepsake someone once treasured for emotional reasons: a token of luck, love, courage, or perhaps a hopeful new chapter just beginning.

Perfect for people making their start in our wonderful town, connecting to our home’s history and culture but equally meaningful for those of us with long associations reminding us why our ancestors came here.  Or maybe this lucky charm is ready to set forth on a new adventure somewhere around the world - with the tag: Wishing you good luck! With lots of love -  Melbourne!