Victorian Banded Agate & Silver Seal Fob

Mirroring in miniature the large hand-held seals typically placed on the desktop, this 19th century Victorian era sceau or seal fob has been crafted from a splendid elongated piece of banded carnelian (cornelian) agate.

Extended bands of translucent and opaque layers range from reddish-brown carnelian to apricot to white to almost clear. A nicely engraved detailed silver cap and bezel encloses the carved agate matrix with an intaglio of a sailing ship on the rolling sea. A simple silver reeded band replete with “O” fitting ornaments the middle. Charming in scale and a delight for the eyes.

Condition: Excellent

Measurements: In total length the fob is just shy of 1-3/8 inches (3.4 cm) and has a weight of 3.7 grams.

The square end measures less than 3/8 of an inch (0.9 cm) in diameter; the circular conclusion is 3/8 of an inch (1 cm) across.

Date & Origin: Circa 1880; Scottish or English in origin.