Description
An amazing find – a genuine piece of antique, 1920s hand crafted silver Arts and Crafts fine jewellery in all original condition. It is an extraordinary piece, as it is a Toi et Moi sautoir, which has been hand crafted in England, clearly by a fine maker, using Bakelite gemstones. I have only once before come across historic Bakelite jewellery like this, and this actually may be the same maker, as there are some strikingly familiar touches in the work. Bakelite was developed in the US way back in 1907!
Each vibrant red Bakelite bead, both round beads and barrel-shaped beads, has been integrated into a silver chain, with two different types of silver links. I love the way the central Bakelite disc has been tied into the chain and what is rather unusual, is the fact that there is a Toi et Moi feature suspended from that central disc. It hands beautifully when the necklace is worn.
It is a rarity to see Bakelite used in fine jewellery on this scale, with the whole piece being in pleasing condition. It is an important piece of jewellery show casing these “Bakelite jewels” from the early 1920s. It is not only of antique interest but also of socio-historic interest.
The wearable length of the chain is approx sterling silver sautoir chain measures approx 98cm (38.5 inches). The height of the drop section, from the top of the disc is approx 11 cm. She is an absolute treasure! One line in the final bead which looks like a result of manufacturing rather than damage. As you can see, there is a swirly natural white imperfection to the verso of the central disc.
I will send in a new gift box as the boxes in the images are for display only. Tracked and signed delivery is included.
Ref: dhe
