An elegant and unusual Regency-era sterling silver cravat pin, dating to around 1800–1820, set with an iridescent coque de perle cabochon cut from East Indian nautilus shell.
The elongated oval shell has a wonderfully soft, pearlescent lustre, with a distinct blue iridescence that shifts beautifully as it catches the light. Its naturally irregular surface adds to its character, while the silver mount has been individually shaped to accommodate the distinctive form of the shell. The cabochon is bezel set within a closed-back silver mount decorated with a finely worked double rope-twist border, and soldered directly onto a single piece of heavy gauge silver wire forming the traditional equestrian-style 'nappy pin' construction.
Coque de perle, from the French for "pearl shell", is a rare historical imitation pearl made from nautilus shell. Particularly associated with Georgian jewellery, these unusual shell pearls are highly collectible for their distinctive appearance and their place in the history of antique jewellery.
Its elegant, restrained design makes this a wonderfully versatile antique, suitable as a ladies' brooch, stock pin or men's lapel pin.
As an added bonus, the brooch comes presented in a later antique fitted jeweller's box from C. L. Wilson, Fancy Jeweller & Silversmith, 14 Grainger Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne. A beautiful presentation for this charming little antique jewel and an especially lovely gift.
DETAILS:
MATERIALS: Sterling silver, nautilus shell
SIZE: 1-5/8" / 4 cm across; pearl cabochon measures 7/8" / 2.2 cm × 3/8" / 1 cm
HALLMARK: None; acid tested and verified sterling
WEIGHT: 3.5 grams
DATE: Circa 1800–1820, Georgian/Regency
CONDITION: Very good antique condition, with wear consistent with age and use
________
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.
