Details
Measuring an ample 58 inches in length, this magnificent antique Victorian guard chain was crafted in Birmingham in 1898 and is hallmarked on the dog-clip clasp. Also bearing the prestigious sterling silver Lion mark, the substantial rope-twist chain is masterfully crafted in silver throughout and lavishly finished with 18ct yellow gold gilt, giving it the sumptuous appearance of solid gold.
Guard chains were an essential and fashionable accessory during the Victorian era. Originally designed as practical chains for securing everyday necessities such as a pocket watch, spectacles, or other small personal items. Their generous length allowed them to be styled in numerous ways, making them both a practical accessory and an elegant statement of Victorian fashion.
Preserved in excellent condition, the chain can be worn long as a single, elegantly draped strand, or doubled or tripled around the neck to create beautiful, cascading festoons of gold. A wonderfully substantial example of late-Victorian jewellery, it is as versatile today as it was over a century ago.
WEIGHT: 50.6 grams
MEASURES: Length 58 inches x Width 3.5mm – Clasp Height 22mm x Width 8mm
METAL: Sterling Silver/ 18ct Gold Gilt
AGE: Victorian. (Dated 1898)
MARKS: Sterling Lion stamp, Birmingham Date hallmark
CONDITION: Excellent, wear commensurate with age.
ITEM NUMBER: 26-237
