These antique gold fobs are such incredible pieces to find, we love discoving what the details represent too!
This particular fob has the most beautiful double sided swivel detail, one side features a carnelian carved with the Scottish Buchanan Clan crest. The features a hand holding aloft a ducal cap within laurel branches and underneath reads the family motto in latin 'Clarior Hinc Honos' which means 'Henceforth the honour shall grow ever brighter'. The carving is in reverse so it could be used to stamp wax seals. You could even still use it to do so today too!
The other side features a lovely dark bloodstone and as the fob swivels, you can wear it with either side to the front so it wears like two pendants in one! The frame is even wonderfully detailed with a faint faceted pattern to the gold and the top where the jump ring connects is a lovely angular shape too.
The gold is marked inside the frame of the swivel '10' for 10ct gold. Without further hallmarks, it's hard to date the fob exactly but we think it's likely circa late 19th Century in age. It’s also likely that there may be some base metal inside the gold fob casing to give the piece strength. We haven't tested the jump ring but we believe it's likely rolled gold and not solid gold, likely a newer addition.
The fob weighs approx 5.4g and measures approx 28.5mm tall (not including the jump ring) by approx 18.5mm wide by approx 7mm deep. The frame and fob sections are hollow in the centre.
Condition - The fob is in good antique condition to say it is over 100 years old but does show signs of age and wear, including surface wear to the gold, carneial and bloodstone. The carnelian and bloodstone are in good condition with only some very small nibbles to the edges. There are some old dark solder marks to the gold, particularly where the frame section connects to the ball shape top. The swivel mechanism still works well. The jump ring is currently pushed closed. Please see photos.
*Please note the chain and box pictured are not included in the sale but the fob will be shipped in a new presentation box and pouch.*
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Antique 10ct gold, carnelian and bloodstone swivel fob/pendant Scottish Buchanan
All items are carefully wrapped and packaged in a gift pouch and box. In the UK, we always post items via Royal Mail's Special Delivery service which is fully tracked and insured. For international items, orders up to £300 are sent via Royal Mail's international tracked (and signed for where applicable) service and orders over £300 are sent via DHL Express.