Antique 17th Century Stuart Crystal Initial Slide 18-22 K Gold

The House of Stuart ruled the United Kingdom from 1603, when King James VI of Scotland became King James I of England as well, and united both kingdoms. The Stuart Era lasted over a century and ended in 1714, with a death of Queen Anne. They were tumultuous years in the history of the UK with war, plague and intense and violent political and religious upheaval. The dramatic death by execution of King Charles I marked the creation of Stuart Crystal jewellery, worn in silent support of King Charles and in mourning of his death. 

This is a beautiful piece of English Stuart jewellery, dating from 1650-1680. There are no hallmarks, but the slide is typical of the mid to late 17th century and it is made of 18-22 karat gold (professionally tested). The frame for the crystal is hand crafted in rich and buttery colour gold, with typical for the period crimped, pie crust setting and a rounded, convex shaped back. The oval centrepiece has a background of blond, super finely woven hair, with elaborate initials made in the finest, crisp, twisted gold wire atop. The Tudor initials are miniature works of art and rather complicated to decipher in a definite way - we do see B and A there, but the longer you look, the more letters seem to appear ! Like most of them on Stuart Crystal jewellery, they are a case of guesswork, or being creative. They are very intricate - and confusing, we will leave this task to this treasure's new owner.

All that beauty is crowned by the most beautifully faceted Stuart Crystal, see how it is pointed in a rose shape? This really is the Stuart jewellery at its best. The slide measures 16.4 by 17.9 mm (19.2 mm including the fastenings for the ribbon) and weighs 3.2 grams. The gold frame and the wirework are in superb condition, as is the hair work and the rock crystal. On close inspection with a jewellers loupe you can see a few tiny pieces of shellac type reddish substance that was most likely used to keep the hair work in place inside the frame. You cannot see this at all without the loupe, and it is not affecting the appearance or stability of this jewel. As this fabulous piece is close to being 400 years old we are delighted it survived in such a great antique condition.

This Stuart slide is the perfect addition to any collection of early jewellery, but can be worn and enjoyed too. It looks fantastic on a beautiful silk or velvet ribbon - the original way it would have been worn back at the time, as a choker.

We adore ..... this gorgeous early piece of history and art, the slide is beyond amazing. How lucky and beautiful to own and wear history!

* Please kindly note that other jewellery in our photos is for your inspiration and not included in this listing *

A-1273

THIS ITEM SHIPS;
FREE TO US WITH TARIFF IMPORT DUTIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
FREE TO UK via Next Day Delivery.
FREE FEDEX OR DHL SHIPPING TO CANADA, EUROPE, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, JAPAN AND HONG KONG

Thanks so much for stopping by! We offer very friendly layaway options so please do get in touch if you are interested. All items paid for in full are subject to a full refund if you are not delighted with your purchase. The layaway items are eligible for exchange only, please refer to our Terms of Sale located on our front page, at the bottom right hand corner for full details. Thanks again! E x