Antique Georgian Carnelian Watch Key Pendant

An unusual and collectible Georgian watch key dating to around 1800, beautifully crafted with a richly coloured polished carnelian set within an ornate deep repoussé gold cased surround.

During the early nineteenth century, decorative watch keys were an essential accessory, used to wind pocket watches while also serving as fashionable jewellery. Ladies and gentlemen often suspended them from long guard chains or wore them alongside seals and fobs, creating highly personalised collections of treasured pieces.

This example is particularly striking, featuring a substantial carnelian framed by intricate repoussé decoration. It is crafted in gold cased metal with a steel core, a traditional method used during the Georgian period to provide both strength and durability while maintaining the luxurious appearance of gold.

This piece looks beautiful worn alone on a mid-length chain or layered with lockets, seals and other antique pendants for a curated look.

The listing is for the Carnelian fob (watch key) pendant - chains available to purchase separately.

Details

Measurements: 59x22.5mm

Gemstones: Carnelian

Weight: 10.7 grams

Hallmarks: none - tested as a low grade gold with base metal core

Condition: Good - fracture in carnelian (surface reaching on one side only) it is secure in its frame

Date: Georgian (1714 - 1830)

Product Code: P428