Antique 1909 Stamp Case Necklace

Beautiful antique sterling silver stamp case on a handwired sterling silver and gold fill chain. The stamp case has a hand beaten finish which was very popular with the Arts & Crafts movement.

The stamp case is hallmarked Birmingham 1909 and has the makers mark G V & Co for Gourdel Vales & Co.

Gourdel Vales & Co was founded in 1820 in Paris and had offices in London and Birmingham. They were exhibitors at the Great Exhibition of 1851 and the International Exhibition of 1862. Specialising in a wide range of silverware and jewellery they later showcased designs from the Art Nouveau and Arts and Crafts Movement. The company closed in 1939.

Stamps were expensive items and therefore were stored in special boxes or cases. Small stamp cases were designed to hold just a few stamps and the simplest were of decorated cardboard, while the more elaborate were made of precious metals. Many had small rings attached so they could be suspended from a watch chain or necklace. Some were so elaborately adorned that they were as much items of jewellery as utilitarian objects.

The stamp case measures 3cm x 2.5cm and the total length of the chain is 57cm with a 3cm extension.

This unique piece of jewellery may have signs of wear due to its history. It is beautifully imperfect and should be treated with love and care. This gorgeous piece is in great antique condition and opens and closes securely.

All Vonk Jewellery is presented in a gift box and pouch with luxe ribbon. If you would like a gift message included please message me at checkout.