Antique Edwardian Cabochon Carnelian Cufflinks
An amulet or talisman is a small object that is often worn or carried by an individual who believes that it will magically bestow or promote a particular power. In ancient Egypt these objects were often worn as everyday adornment or as we know it, as jewelry. Necklaces, bracelets and rings frequently incorporated semi-precious gems and stones that by their shape, color or material dictated the inherent powers. Not only limited to the ancients, we also bedeck ourselves with “good-luck” charms and symbolic amulets.
Amulets come in many shapes and forms and it would be difficult to deny that a set of antique cufflinks made with carnelian (cornelian) is any different from a carnelian necklace or bracelet worn by the ancients as a stone of protection. Understated Edwardian elegance shines with the simple 14k gold bezel setting of cabochon of carnelian in the color of a muted red/reddish-brown. With a weight of 7 grams for the pair, each double-sided face measures ½ of an inch in diameter and ¼ of an inch in depth for each stone and mount (1.3 cm by 0.8 cm deep). In very fine condition with wear commensurate with age and use. With secure decorative gold brackets and cross bars, the links are hallmarked “14k”. Equally suiting a man or a woman. Dates to circa 1895 – 1910.
