Airmail : Victorian Era Small 9ct Gold & Citrine Wax Seal Fob of a Bird Carrying a Letter

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Did you know, in the early days of the Postal Service the cost to mail your letter depended on its weight? Because of this prolific letter writers made use of very thin paper, and often chose to do without the added expense of an envelope. The letter paper was folded and fixed in place with a wax seal, the address and stamp applied to the outside sheet.

Wax seals have been used to seal correspondence and merchandise (such as amphora filled with oil) since ancient times. In contemporary society wax seals are used more as a romantic decorative flourish than a guarantee that an item is unopened, but our penchant for a good wax impression and a finely carved intaglio remains steadfast. This item ticks both boxes, and should also be of great interest to lovers of all things miniature.

This tiny Victorian Era wax fob is made in 9ct gold with a citrine intaglio at the base, carved with a small bird carrying an envelope in its beak. The fob is charming in its own right, with fleur de lis detailing at the top of the  the stem and acanthus engraving along the hexagonal sides. The delightful intaglio is a marvellous surprise and makes an excellent wax impression. The perfect size and shape to wear as a pendant, or it could make a good addition to a charm bracelet.

Manufacture:
Modelled in 9ct gold, there are no hallmarks present, but the metal has been verified by XRF test.

The fob measures 19.72mm x 8.22mm x 8.22mm.
Weighs 1.54 grams.
The opening at the top is oval shaped, with an internal diameter of  3.5mm x 3mm.

The citrine intaglio has been verified as a natural quartz gemstone (citrine is a member of the quartz family) by an independent gemologist. It has a diameter of approximately 7.2mm.

Condition: 
In excellent antique condition. Ready for immediate wear and use.

**please note this listing is for the fob only, the chain pictured is for styling purposes only.