THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT ~
Type: Pendant, Watch Key
Materials: 14k Gold, Cable
Era: Victorian (1837-1901)
ABOUT:
Historically interesting souvenir watch key pendant or fob made from a slice of the Transatlantic Telegraph Cable cased in 14k yellow gold. The Transatlantic cable was laid under the ocean in 1858 for telegraph communications between the United States and Great Britain. Tiffany & Co. purchased the remaining pieces of the cable to sell as souvenirs, although this piece is unmarked so I am not sure of the maker.
The slice of cable is made from copper and steel wire and has an almost floral design to it from the cross section of the wires appearing as little clusters. I had read that gutta percha, a natural type of latex used in Victorian times, is the binding agent. And then the cross section is wrapped in a gold frame with gold cased key tip and gold swivel loop on top. It is unmarked but all places test at 14k. It is reversible so it makes a great fob as it is interesting on both sides.
Interesting and unique conversation piece!
Measures 46mm end to end by 19mm wide and 5mm deep. It weighs 6.3 grams. Inside components of the key tip and the rivet for the swivel are steel for strength.
IMPORTANT CONDITION NOTES:
Please note that all my pieces are in estate condition. Cracks to the gold at the tip of the key from wear where it has flaked away and there is a crease on one side. Surface wear and scratching and some patina from age to the gold. There is some crazing to the gutta percha from age.
Please note due to age, this piece is not in mint condition.
Thanks for stopping by!
Box#T.(2#
