Victorian Whistle Pendant
Charming little gold whistle pendant dating from the late 19th century, circa 1890. Built in pinchbeck. It emits a high-pitched sound when blown.
Pinchbeck is a form of brass, an alloy of copper and zinc (89% copper to 11% zinc), formulated to mimic the appearance of gold. Invented in the early 18th century by Christopher Pinchbeck, becoming popularly used in jewellery worn whilst travelling on dangerous stagecoaches, but allowed people who may not have otherwise afforded larger 18ct gold pieces to keep up with the ever-changing styles. Pinchbeck was made by Christopher and his descendants until around the 1830s (allegedly always marketed honestly, for what it was...) before eventually falling out of fashion when 9ct was legalised in 1854.
Era: Victorian, circa 1890
Size: 27mm by 7mm (not including jump ring)
Marks: None, tested as pinchbeck
Condition: Great antique condition, a small ding near the bail
Full appraisal document provided with each item
This includes a valuation for insurance purposes, item specifics, date, and origins (where applicable)
Gemstones are tested by an accredited gemmologist (Cert GA, Gemmological Association of Great Britain)
Shipping
Express shipping is free of charge and carbon offset
Tracked and insured with signature on delivery
UPS Express (International)
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Resizing
Ring sizing is available on most rings
£35 flat fee
Resizing takes 7-14 days
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Note: sizing may remove some of the patina (although we take every care to reduce this where possible)
Layaway
A 25% deposit will be taken to secure the item. The remaining balance will be settled in 90 days. You can pay installments weekly, monthly, or the full balance at the end - whatever works.
Condition
We offer detailed and accurate condition reports on each listing. These pieces are antique, vintage, or pre-loved, often over 100 years old so they're going to have lived a life. A healthy patina and the odd scuff/scrape are quite normal... it's part of their charm! Everything we present has been checked over by our jeweller and should be good for wear for many years to come (unless otherwise stated) but please remember to treat them with appropriate care and consideration for their age.
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alex@lostowl.jewelry