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Latest Antique Jewellery Finds
A vintage hand carved carnelian intaglio pendant or charm depicting the image of Medusa, one of the dreaded Gorgons from Greek mythology. The carving of the intaglio is beautifully done, with plenty of depth, allowing the light to penetrate and highlight the details. It is simply set with a metal wire to allow it to be worn in a chain or cord.
Curator’s Note:
The story of Medusa is a tragic one - she was cursed, after being assaulted, and became a symbol of terror - turning people to stone simply by looking at them. However, in reexamination, the character has become viewed more as a victim and a symbol of female empowerment and rage.
A powerful talisman for a wearer and a stunningly carved intaglio that catches the light beautifully.
Details:
Date: The condition and shape of this intaglio suggests it may be a more recent piece, likely made in the early part of the 20th century.
Size and weight: 2.5 grams, 24mm by 14mm
Condition: Excellent condition with no chips or notable scratches.
A highly collectable silver and enamel floral-design ring by the renowned Birmingham-based silversmith Bernard Instone.
Curator’s Note
Bernard Instone was one of the leading figures of the British Arts and Crafts movement in the early twentieth century, celebrated for preserving the tradition of hand-crafted silverwork at a time when mass production was becoming dominant.
Working from Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, he became renowned for his beautifully made jewellery and silver pieces that combined finely worked silver with colourful enamel and semi-precious stones, often inspired by nature. His work was sold at famous London department store Liberty.
This ring was sold as part of a collection of Bernard Instone’s jewellery at an auction house in England.
Details:
Date: Circa 1920
Hallmarks: Marked STERLING
Size: UK size K and a half, US size approx 5
Condition: The ring is in good antique condition. Some light surface wear commensurate with age. No notable damage to the enamelling.
An exquisite and rare rectangle shaped 14ct yellow gold Micromosaic ring featuring a floral scene. The ring has delicate proportions and scrolling shoulders emulating Ancient Roman designs.
Curator’s note
Micro mosaic jewellery became highly fashionable during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, particularly among wealthy travellers undertaking the Grand Tour. This was the traditional journey through Italy and Europe considered an essential part of a refined education.
Crafted predominantly in Rome and the Vatican workshops, these intricate pieces were created using hundreds of tiny hand-cut glass tesserae arranged to form detailed scenes, flowers, or architectural views with extraordinary precision.
Purchased as treasured souvenirs of travel and culture, micro mosaics embodied both artistic virtuosity and romantic nostalgia for classical Italy. Today, antique micro mosaic jewellery is prized for its craftsmanship, historical significance, and the remarkable patience required to create such finely detailed miniature works of art.
Details:
Date - Victorian Circa 1860
Hallmarks: No hallmarks but tests as 14ct gold. Some light serial number scratches on the back of the face, made by the craftsman when it was created.
Size and weight. Just under 2grams
UK size O, US size 7.5
Condition: Excellent antique condition with no visible issues with the mosaic.
A small and startlingly pretty sail boat charm in silver gilded with gold. The sails are set with tiny diamond chips and the base of the boat is set with three baguette-cut rubies.
Details:
Date: Vintage Circa 1990s
Size and weight: 1.5cm by 2 cm including the ring
Condition: Excellent vintage condition.
An exquisitely hand-carved highly detailed fish charm made from a single piece of mother of pearl shell. It’s set on a base metal setting and finished with a generous jump ring.
The fish has incredible iridescence and is in excellent condition. A rare and beautiful little treasure.
Dertails:
Date: Circa 1890
Hallmarks: No hallmarks, Mother of Pearl and Brass
Size: Approx 3cm in length
Condition: Excellent antique condition
A beautiful example of an understated Rivière necklace with bezel-set, closed back Lapis Lazuli cabochons linked together with solid soldered silver rings. The cabochons sit perfectly on the neck when worn. It’s finished with a hidden, handmade silver clasp.
Details:
Date, Circa 1910
Hallmarks: Stamped 925 for sterling-grade silver
Length - 16.5 inches in length.
Condition: Very good antique condition throughout
A Considered Collection of Rare Pieces
Heritage & Provenance
Each piece at The Windsor Archive is chosen for more than just its beauty. We seek out jewels with character, craftsmanship and cultural significance. We curate objects that are shaped by their time, yet entirely relevant today.
History, Given New Life
Jewellery is created to be worn, lived in and carried forward. Becoming the new custodian of an antique jewel is cultural continuity in action. Integrating them into modern life gives these precious objects new purpose and meaning.
Investments with Substance
By choosing antique or vintage jewellery you are investing in craftsmanship that cannot be replicated and materials that have stood the test of time. These are acquisitions of lasting value, culturally, materially and personally.
“Absolutely blown away again. The pendant is stunning but it’s the care behind that truly sets Windsor Archive apart. The packaging was exquisite and every detail felt intentional. She doesn’t just deliver a product, she delivers an experience. Consistently exceptional, effortlessly thoughtful. A rare kind of excellence.”
— JacquelineSign up for Fortnightly Antique Jewellery News and Offers
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