Antique Carved Carnelian Shell Scent Bottle Pendant

A scent bottle worn on a chain around the neck was not only fashionable, but functional and essential, to ladies of the 18th and 19th century for masking unpleasant daily odors. These tiny bottles often have ornate, detailed and whimsical designs that make them great collectables. Here is a wonderful example, a shell bottle hand carved from carnelian, each ridge of the scallop shell artfully rendered to show off the stone. The bottle has a high carat gold filigree cap and hangs from the original chain and twisted gold bale. The lively orange of the carnelian looks fabulous accented by the bright gold details. This is a wonderful wearable piece of history. 

Era - Georgian circa 1810

Hand carved Carnelian with high carat gold decorations 

All original

Size of bottle approx 3cm x 2.5cm

Weight approx 7 grams

Condition - excellent antique, no chips or remarkable wear. The cap is on a delicate and original hinge. Please look at the photos. Use care when wearing.