This Chinese silver brooch is in the shape of the symbol for happiness, according to a number of online sources, and I think that's more than appropriate. The floral engraving, with finely textured background, covers the pin's front. I think the plant is bamboo, and when I looked up the symbolism of bamboo in Chinese culture, I started laughing, as every site I found gave a different quality attached to it -- virtue, strength, loyalty, integrity, good luck . . .
The maker's mark on the back is AH SHONG, and one online source dates his work to the late 19th century, which would put it in the category of Chinese export silver. The presence of a more modern-style safety catch on the back should be noted; it might have been added somewhere along the way, or the source dating Ah Shong's work may be mistaken. The brooch is about 2 1/8" across at its widest point and about 2 3/16" high, and it weighs .475 troy oz on my digital scale. The pin is strong and the safety catch is in good working order. Thanks for looking, and I hope you enjoyed the view.
Shipping, handling, and insurance will be an additional $7; please note that that applies only to addresses in the United States. If you're interested in this piece and live overseas, please contact me. I will not ship abroad without insurance, which would add quite a bit to the price and is not available for some countries. The best option would be for me to ship it to a friend of yours here in the States, who could forward it via the inexpensive (and lamentably uninsured) First authentic Class International service. Please use a personal check or PayPal for payment. Note: A check will have to clear before I ship.
Last but not least -- should you find more than one piece here at Lucky Six, I'll be happy to combine the postage. Just drop me a note and we'll sort it out.
Product code: Vintage CHINESE SILVER authentic Pin; Beautifully Engraved Symbol for Happiness!