We love finding jewellery that was designed to be beautiful and functional. This antique silver acorn is not only prettily decorated, but to the top are some discreet small holes that show that it was designed to act as a pomander to ward off bad smells.
 
Dating we believe to approx 1900, a pomander was designed to be able to add something perfumed or sweet herbs to the inside so that you have something nice to smell with you at all times. During the Victorian era, the theory that bad smells caused illness and often death (Miasma) was strongly believed by many and so carrying a pomander was essential if you needed to try avoid smelling something foul!
 
This particular pomander is sealed closed, although when gently shaken you can hear the rattle of something inside. We think it's likely whatever was originally added to give off a nice smell. 
 
The acorn is made of silver, it is unhallmarked but has been tested, and measures approx 19.9mm tall (not including the jumo ring) by approx 13.1mm wide and weighs approx 3.35g in total.
 
Condition - The pomander is in good wearable antique condition but as it is over 100 years old, it does show signs of age and wear. There is surface wear to the silver throughout, including some noticeable scratches. There is also a very faint gold tone line that runs around the acorn below the top section. There is some wear to the ring at the top that the jump ring connects to. We are not able to open the pomander so we are unsure of what's currently inside. 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 charm will be shipped in a new presentation box and pouch.*
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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