A fascinating and highly unusual Victorian Scottish banded agate compass fob, originally worn on a gentleman's watch chain. Today, paired with a fine chain, it makes a striking pendant that beautifully combines the rugged beauty of Scottish agate with the ingenuity of Victorian craftsmanship.
Expertly fashioned from richly coloured natural Scottish banded agate, the polished orb displays deep caramel and chestnut tones with a beautifully defined concentric bullseye pattern to one side—a distinctive feature that makes every piece entirely unique. Set into the centre is a miniature working compass housed in a gold bezel, creating an irresistible marriage of Scottish lapidary artistry and practical Victorian design.
The compass has a cream dial with crisp black enamel lettering and an attractive blue directional arrow beneath a clear glass crystal. The needle remains fully functional and highly sensitive, responding freely to even the slightest movement.
Originally worn as a gentleman's watch fob, it retains its original gold-coloured pegged bail and oval jump ring. We have simply paired it with a new gold vermeil (gold-plated sterling silver) fine chain so it is ready to wear and enjoy straight out of the box.
Scottish agate jewellery enjoyed enormous popularity during the Victorian era following Queen Victoria's visits to the Highlands, and pieces such as this beautifully capture the period's fascination with Scotland's remarkable natural gemstones. Combining the appeal of Scottish agate with the enduring charm of a fully functioning compass, this is a wonderfully unusual piece that is equally desirable to jewellery lovers and collectors alike.
DETAILS:
GEMSTONE: Natural Scottish banded agate
SIZE: 21mm diameter. Compass dial 11.50mm diameter.
CHAIN: 16" (41cm) length
WEIGHT: 13.1 grams total
DATE: Victorian, circa 1890
CONDITION: Very good antique condition. The compass remains fully operational with a clear glass crystal and a sensitive, freely moving needle. The agate is beautifully polished with light surface wear and a few minor abrasions visible under close inspection, entirely consistent with its age.
At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring they are ready to wear and enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free Worldwide Shipping
We are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases. For our US customers, all applicable tariffs and import charges are included in the purchase price, so no additional duties or fees will be payable on delivery.
* Returns Policy
If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may return your item for a refund. Please contact us within 3 days of receiving your order and return the item within 7 days.
* Gemstone Testing & Measurements
All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.
* Photography & Scale
Our photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show every fine detail. As a result, minor imperfections may appear more pronounced in images than they do to the naked eye. Close-up photography can also make pieces appear larger on screen, so we recommend referring carefully to the written description for precise dimensions.
* Gifting
Purchasing as a gift? Your jewellery will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note that unless otherwise stated, any antique boxes shown in photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.
