An exceptional antique Victorian Scottish hardstone pocket watch chain, dating to circa 1890, which can also be worn as a distinctive bracelet.
A beautiful example of traditional Scottish pebble jewellery, the chain features a selection of richly coloured, hexagonal-cut hardstones, including banded agate, carnelian, bloodstone and a particularly lovely translucent Cairngorm (smoky quartz).
Each stone is individually mounted between ornate sterling silver end caps, decorated with finely engraved traditional motifs, including Scottish thistles. The contrasting colours and natural patterns of the stones create a wonderful composition, with each section displaying its own distinctive character.
Scottish pebble jewellery enjoyed considerable popularity during the Victorian era, celebrating Scotland's natural mineral wealth through carefully selected and precisely cut agates and other hardstones, often associated with particular regions of the country. These colourful pieces became highly sought-after souvenirs and treasured keepsakes, representing a distinctive chapter in 19th-century Scottish jewellery.
The chain retains its original pocket watch fittings, terminating in a swivel dog-clip and a classic T-bar. The T-bar bears a clear silver hallmark and a date letter 'a', corresponding to either London 1896 or Birmingham 1900.
At approximately 9 inches long, it makes a handsome pocket watch chain, but can equally be worn as a substantial bracelet, fastened using the loop at the T-bar.
An unusually striking and collectible piece of Victorian Scottish jewellery, combining the beauty of natural hardstones with the craftsmanship of engraved silverwork.
THE DETAILS:
METAL: Sterling silver
GEMSTONES: Agate, carnelian, bloodstone and smoky quartz (true Cairngorm). Gemstones tested using a Presidium gem tester.
STONE CUT: Hexagonal, measuring approximately 25.5 x 11.5mm.
HALLMARKS: T-bar stamped with the lion passant for sterling silver, date letter 'a' (London 1896 or Birmingham 1900) and maker's mark 'HP'. Dog-clip stamped 'SS' for sterling silver.
SIZE: 23cm (9 inches) end to end. Bracelet wearing length approximately 21cm (8¼ inches).
WEIGHT: 38.9 grams.
DATE: Victorian, circa 1890.
CONDITION: In very good antique condition, with age-appropriate surface wear and no noted flaws.
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At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear and enjoy or give as a gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free worldwide shipping on all purchases.
* Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days.
* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
* Buying a gift? – your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase.
