Brooch ID?

Hi, I'm looking to see if anyone can identify the wood and the marking on the back of my Brooch/necklace.....can be worn either way. I think it is sterling, although no marking for such has been found on it anywhere under strong loupes! The size is 2 1/2" width and 3 1/16" height.......and thanks in advance for all of your wonderful expertise!!! Sue

 

the wood could be ebony...

 

The 37 is probably the year it was made. I don't have a clue about the maker. It might be listed here somewhere: https://www.illusionjewels.com/research/costumejewelrymarks.html

 

I like it!

 

Is there something stamped here (where circled) on the inside of the bail, or is this just a reflection from the chain?
.... or maybe I just need 'real' glasses

 

No, I looked and looked at that spot, but near as I can tell, it's just like smeared or burn marks on the hook.....Sue

 

Looks like bog wood.

 

It's later than Victorian; the carving style is all wrong, as is her hair. I'd say 30s is about right, from the metalwork and carving.

 

Might well be bog oak, in which case I'd look to an Irish maker.

 

WHAT is "bog" wood??? Or I can look it up!!!!

 

WOW! Well that was easy!!!! If bog wood is what it is!! Are those tiny holes characteristic of it?? I was thinking Ebony, but don't really know anything about that either......

Edit: How little I knew.....I always thought Ebony was "A" type of wood!!! Now I learn it refers to many types of black or nearly so, hardwoods from a few countries, if I read correctly!! Sheesh! Live and learn!

 

So far, I haven't gotten anywhere on the 'siggy' above the "37" on the back though.......anyone have any further input or am I at a dead end???? As always, thank you so much for your help!

 

There's a Jewelry Group over on the old Ebay system. Not a message board but an interest group; it's where the old joolies went when Ebay reorganized things. Someone there might know.

 

Here is the URL, it is a group and you have to join:
http://community.ebay.com/t5/Jewelry-Gemstones-Board-Group/gp-p/JewelryGemstonesBoardGroup

 

Thank you SO much.....I'll go check it out!!!!