{"product_id":"antique-victorian-sterling-silver-32220","title":"Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Propelling Pencil Pendant With Seal Matrix","description":"\u003cp\u003eThere is something irresistibly romantic about a writing instrument that has survived for more than 125 years—especially one as exquisitely crafted as this.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDating to around 1890, this superb solid sterling silver propelling pencil is a refined relic of the Victorian era and remains in exceptional condition. The engine-turned decoration is still remarkably crisp and the propelling mechanism operates smoothly and precisely, a testament to the quality of its manufacture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike the diminutive novelty pencils often encountered today, this is a substantial full-size example. Every inch of its surface is richly decorated with intricate woven engine-turning, elegant scroll collars and finely ornamented terminals. Most intriguing of all is the beautifully engraved quilted terminal, which serves a dual purpose. Not only does it unscrew to reveal a rare multi-compartment lead reservoir, allowing spare leads to be stored individually within the body of the pencil, but it also functions as a decorative seal matrix, capable of being pressed into sealing wax to secure letters and personal correspondence. Such clever multi-purpose designs were highly prized during the Victorian era, combining practicality with elegance in a way rarely seen today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA detachable sterling silver collar with jump ring allows the pencil to be worn as a pendant if desired. One can easily imagine it suspended from a long guard chain or displayed elegantly upon a writing desk, ready to pen letters, poetry, journal entries or whispered gossip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough it bears no visible maker's mark, the pencil is exceptionally well made and comparable in quality to pieces produced by the finest English makers of the late Victorian period. It is currently fitted with a lead and contains three additional leads within the reservoir. It accepts standard 1.0mm pencil leads, which remain readily available today, ensuring it is not merely a beautiful collector's piece but a fully functional writing instrument.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rare survivor from the golden age of craftsmanship—perfect for the antique jewellery lover, collector of fine writing instruments, or writer who believes inspiration deserves a worthy tool.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTHE DETAILS:\u003cbr\u003e\nMETAL: Sterling silver throughout, acid tested\u003cbr\u003e\nSIZE: 13cm (5 inches) extended; 9.8cm (3⅞ inches) closed\u003cbr\u003e\nMARKS: None visible\u003cbr\u003e\nWEIGHT: 16.6 grams\u003cbr\u003e\nDATE: Circa 1890, Victorian\u003cbr\u003e\nCONDITION: Excellent. Fully functional with only light surface wear commensurate with age. The engraved decoration remains crisp and beautifully defined throughout.\u003cbr\u003e\n________________________\u003cbr\u003e\nAt Mercy Madge, we specialise in quality antique and vintage jewellery, carefully sourced throughout Great Britain. Every piece is professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring it is ready to wear, enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.\u003cbr\u003e\nADDITIONAL INFORMATION\u003cbr\u003e\n• Free Worldwide Shipping\u003cbr\u003e\nWe are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases.\u003cbr\u003e\n• Returns Policy\u003cbr\u003e\nIf 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.\u003cbr\u003e\n• Gemstone Testing \u0026amp; Measurements\u003cbr\u003e\nAll gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.\u003cbr\u003e\n• Photography \u0026amp; Scale\u003cbr\u003e\nOur 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.\u003cbr\u003e\n• Gifting\u003cbr\u003e\nPurchasing 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.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mercy Madge","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56274720457083,"sku":null,"price":350.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0301\/3256\/8203\/files\/il_fullxfull.8081552154_ph8j.jpg?v=1780243123","url":"https:\/\/mercymadge.com\/products\/antique-victorian-sterling-silver-32220","provider":"Mercy Madge ","version":"1.0","type":"link"}