An Edwardian 15ct gold enamelled Naval Cap Badge.  
 
The brooch has fine enamel detailing on the crown with a silvered anchor.  It is in beautiful condition. The brooch has a handmade safety catch to the reverse keeping it safe when worn.
 
Royal Navy caps were first introduced to supplement the cocked hat, as worn by naval officers. A reorganisation of uniform in 1856 established the badge upon which Royal Navy cap badges remain based today: anchor, with wrapped cable, surrounded by gold laurel leaves broken at the top by a padded velvet King's crown, with red, blue and green detail.
 
Sweetheart brooches have been popular since the early 20th century and were given to wives, mothers and girlfriends by servicemen as mementos and reminders of the absent loved one. They were worn to show pride in having a sweetheart who was serving his country.
 
They were made for every budget from base metal and enamel to diamond set platinum and designs were made for every aspect of the military. 
 
Era: Edwardian, 1901 - 1920
Measurements: the brooch is 2.6cm wide, 2.5cm at the highest point, 6 grams in weight.
Hallmarks: Stamped 15CT (anchor tests silver)