Jade and Precious Stones ‘Grasshopper’ Brooch by Iradj Moini, 21st century

This brooch depicting a grasshopper is crafted from amethyst, jade, coral, turquoise, malachite and gilded metal in the 21st century by the New York-based designer Iradj Moini. The composition features an engraved amethyst head and a body carved from antique Chinese jade, chiselled with motifs of baby dragons. The piece is embellished with ‘angel skin’-coloured coral cabochons, turquoise stones forming the eyes, and a malachite triangle accentuating the neck. The piece rests on a gold-plated metal setting signed by the artist. It measures 3.5 cm in width, 3 cm in height and 9 cm in depth. The piece is in very good condition. Works by this designer have been exhibited at the MOMA and the Louvre.