Victorian Gold Dolphin Fob

As the lion is the king of beasts so in similar heraldic fashion the dolphin is the king of fish. Often seen as the most classic symbol of fish, the dolphin was associated with Apollo, the Greek god of the sun.

Beautifully crafted in solid 10k rose gold, the Renaissance revival motif of the dolphin is displayed in this late 19th century fob. The stepped octagonal base encloses a smooth matrix of reddish-brown carnelian often used as a protection against evil. The body of the fob is formed from two entwined dolphins carefully appointed with details such as eyes, open mouth and textured skin. The spiral bale atop the dolphins echoes the stepped base.

Condition: Very good; the only item of note is that the top spiral bale has a bit of wear (see photos); light wear overall; stone is excellent.

Measurements: Fob is 7/8 of an inch (2.2 cm) in length without the bale; 1-1/8 inches (2.8 cm) in length from the top of the bale to the bottom of the base; 7/8 of an inch (2.2 cm) at the widest by 3/4 of an inch (almost 2 cm); the base itself is 3/16 of an inch (0.5 cm) in thickness. Weight of 13.1 grams.

Date: Circa 1850