Antique Sterling Silver Bloodstone and Carnelia Lion Spinner 1866 hallmark
Steeped in history and symbolism, this large antique sterling silver spinner fob features a noble reclining lion atop a rotating double-sided gemstone seal. One side bears a rich, forest-green bloodstone flecked with red - revered since antiquity for its protective qualities - while the reverse showcases a fiery carnelian, long associated with courage and vitality.
The lion, a timeless emblem of strength and sovereignty, lends this piece an air of regal authority. The fob itself harks back to the late Georgian and Victorian eras, when such spinners were used as wax seals, pressed into molten wax to sign letters and documents with a flourish of personal distinction. Bloodstone was often favoured for its association with bravery and resilience, while carnelian was believed to bestow confidence upon its wearer.
Today, this versatile piece can be worn as a pendant on a chain or added to an Albert watch chain for an air of vintage elegance. Whether appreciated as a striking example of antique craftsmanship or worn as a talisman of fortitude, this rare and beautiful fob is a true collector’s piece - blending historical significance with contemporary charm.
Weight - 9.4gr
Measurements - stones measure 21mm diamtre, lion measures 18 × 9mm, total drop 33mm
Hallmarks - Lion mark for sterling silver, Birmingham Assay Office, date letter m for 1886
Makers Mark - D (second letter obscured by hinge)
Steeped in history and symbolism, this large antique sterling silver spinner fob features a noble reclining lion atop a rotating double-sided gemstone seal. One side bears a rich, forest-green bloodstone flecked with red - revered since antiquity for its protective qualities - while the reverse showcases a fiery carnelian, long associated with courage and vitality.
The lion, a timeless emblem of strength and sovereignty, lends this piece an air of regal authority. The fob itself harks back to the late Georgian and Victorian eras, when such spinners were used as wax seals, pressed into molten wax to sign letters and documents with a flourish of personal distinction. Bloodstone was often favoured for its association with bravery and resilience, while carnelian was believed to bestow confidence upon its wearer.
Today, this versatile piece can be worn as a pendant on a chain or added to an Albert watch chain for an air of vintage elegance. Whether appreciated as a striking example of antique craftsmanship or worn as a talisman of fortitude, this rare and beautiful fob is a true collector’s piece - blending historical significance with contemporary charm.
Weight - 9.4gr
Measurements - stones measure 21mm diamtre, lion measures 18 × 9mm, total drop 33mm
Hallmarks - Lion mark for sterling silver, Birmingham Assay Office, date letter m for 1886
Makers Mark - D (second letter obscured by hinge)
Steeped in history and symbolism, this large antique sterling silver spinner fob features a noble reclining lion atop a rotating double-sided gemstone seal. One side bears a rich, forest-green bloodstone flecked with red - revered since antiquity for its protective qualities - while the reverse showcases a fiery carnelian, long associated with courage and vitality.
The lion, a timeless emblem of strength and sovereignty, lends this piece an air of regal authority. The fob itself harks back to the late Georgian and Victorian eras, when such spinners were used as wax seals, pressed into molten wax to sign letters and documents with a flourish of personal distinction. Bloodstone was often favoured for its association with bravery and resilience, while carnelian was believed to bestow confidence upon its wearer.
Today, this versatile piece can be worn as a pendant on a chain or added to an Albert watch chain for an air of vintage elegance. Whether appreciated as a striking example of antique craftsmanship or worn as a talisman of fortitude, this rare and beautiful fob is a true collector’s piece - blending historical significance with contemporary charm.
Weight - 9.4gr
Measurements - stones measure 21mm diamtre, lion measures 18 × 9mm, total drop 33mm
Hallmarks - Lion mark for sterling silver, Birmingham Assay Office, date letter m for 1886
Makers Mark - D (second letter obscured by hinge)
Things to know
Each piece in my shop is pre-loved and therefore can show little imperfections from wear. I will always describe the piece as detailed as possible but please keep in mind that you are not purchasing a brand-new item.
All jewellery boxes used in the photos are display only. Your charm will arrive in a Little Vintage Emporium jewellery box.
