This is a lovely 12 karat watch fob-pendant featuring a hand-carved carnelian shell intaglio. The shell is carved into an orange carnelian stone with the name "Alice" across the front of the shell. The shell and name are depicted with sharp lines and great detail and the stone is luminous, changing tones when backlit.
The carnelian is bezel set in 12 karat gold that's been tested. The design is elegant with draping gold features that gather at the bail opening. The bail has a 3.7 mm opening and accommodates a variety of chain sizes. The oval carnelian measures approximately 19.35 in length by 15.30 in width. The piece is 1" from top to bottom and it weighs 6 grams.
Fobs were traditionally worn as a sign of status and elegance. When pressed against a wax seal, the fob becomes a personal signature of its owner, and would be used to sign documents. Perhaps this was the seal of a Victorian "Alice" , a lover of the ocean and seaside.
This piece of jewelry is great for everyday wear and makes a very special gift!
