$4,400.00
A vesta case is a box that was used to hold the earlier friction matches that could easily be lit by striking them against nearly any surface, and these cases were used to store them with a "friction plate" on the end which was used to strike the match, and here is one that is not only so unique and special, but so finely made that finding the locket part is nearly impossible to see or feel once closed.
Made in 9 carat rose gold in 1906, the colour of the gold has that lovely warm tone to it that looks even more special with the high polish finish to the case.
Measuring 32.9mm across by 42.8mm, this vesta case opens on one side to reveal a secret locket compartment making this so much more rare and special than just a vesta case or locket.
With such a smooth and tactile feel to the touch, this vesta case and locket is still in exceptional condition even well after a century has passed since it was made.
Stock# ET354
Maker: Cohen and Charles
Hallmarked: Chester 1906
$4,400
In stock
Solid gold antique Vesta case with a locket made in 1906
A brief history on vesta cases:
Unlike safety matches today, the early matches that were able to be lit solely by striking it across a surface, were called lucifer matches and were first produced in 1826. These matches could ignite spontaneously from the heat of friction, sometimes quite explosively, and were therefore a potential danger if carried loosely in the pocket. Imagine a Western movie of the 1940's and 50's, where the cowboy could literally strike a match against the heel of his boot to light it, or against the unshaven face of his opponent. Because they could light so easily, these "new" matches were housed inside a case called a vesta.
Named after the Roman deity of fire and the hearth, Vesta, the vesta case was immensely popular and were produced extensively from the 1830's right up to the Art Deco period of the 1920's and 30's. With higher quality ones being made in sterling silver, these were often small works of art by being engraved beautifully or decorated with enamel scenes.
