This antique seal is absolutely gorgeous and will make not only a wonderful example of an antique seal, but a stunning pendant to wear around the neck where it will no doubt always be admired.
Seals have been used since Roman times and were quite literally used to "seal" an envelope with wax and then have the seal with often a family crest carved into the base, pressed into the still warm wax leaving an impression, that once the envelope was opened would break the seal and was used to prevent it being opened by anyone else.
This seal was made in 15 carat rose, yellow and the much rarer green gold, and dates from the mid-Victorian time of the 1870's.
Gold is alloyed with other metals that results in producing different colours. For example rose gold is made by primarily adding copper to the gold when being alloyed, resulting in a lovely warm tone to it, and today green gold is made by adding silver to the gold, however the green colour is more a soft green-yellow colour. Years ago however cadmium was added resulting in a stronger green colour. While never a strong green such as yellow or white gold, the tone of green in antique pieces is more pronounced as can be seen here when it is used to highlight the leaf design around the seal.
Not only are there the three colours of gold, but the detail is just so magnificent to admire and is a real testament to what could be produced over 150 years ago. This is such a magnificent antique seal that has so much detail to admire from near or far, and is still in superb condition.
The base of the seal has a wonderful intaglio with the Latin phrase of "nil conscire sibi" which translates a few ways, but basically has the meaning of "Conscious of no wrong" as well as "To have a free conscience" which adds to the wonderful charm and allure of this seal.
The base measures 14.7mm by 17.3mm, and from the bottom to the top it measures 25.7mm, making it the perfect size to wear as a pendant.
This is such a wonderful antique seal that will be loved, admired and cherished each and every time that it is worn.
Stock# ET1317
Circa: 1870
$Sold.
Out of stock
Antique amethyst wax seal in three colour gold
This antique amethyst wax seal was made in the 1870's in rose, yellow and green gold.
What is green gold?
Gold is alloyed with other metals that results in producing different colours. Rose gold is made by primarily adding copper to the gold when being alloyed resulting in the lovely warm tone to it, and today green gold is made by adding silver to the gold, however the green colour is more a soft green-yellow colour. Years ago cadmium was added resulting in a stronger colour. While never a strong green such as yellow or white gold, the tone of green in antique pieces is more pronounced especially when set against sterling silver.
What are seals used for?
Going back as far as Roman times, after a letter was sealed with wax, the writer would stamp the still warm wax with his or her seal to prevent the wrong person from opening the letter, as once broken, the wax seal could not be used again.
Which is the best antique store in Australia?
Kalmar Antiques in the Queen Victoria Building have been dealing in antique jewellery and watches for over 35 years. With a Rolex trained watchmaker on site, Kalmar Antiques are also able to repair and restore any antique jewellery.
Click here to see a small selection of more antique seals that are currently instore:
https://www.kalmarantiques.com.au/product-category/antique/swivels-amp-seals/
Click here for a link to the beautiful and historic Queen Victoria Building where we are the only antique jewellery store in the building:
