Bloodstone is a dark green chalcedony quartz containing distinctive red inclusions of iron oxide or jasper. It has been utilised for signet rings and decorative seals for centuries. The stone takes a high polish, making it durable enough for daily wear in rings, fobs, and brooches set in gold or silver.

How do I wear a fob pendant?

Fob pendants originally hung from pocket watch chains worn across waistcoats by Victorian and Edwardian gentlemen. Today, many wear them suspended from modern neck chains or charm bracelets. Spinning fobs allow the wearer to rotate the central stone block to display different faces, such as a carved stone and a blank gold panel.

What is Scottish pebble jewellery?

Scottish pebble jewellery incorporates native hardstones like bloodstone, jasper, agate, and carnelian set into silver or gold mounts. These designs gained immense popularity during the Victorian era following royal patronage in Scotland. Pieces often take the form of brooches, dirks, and padlocks, showcasing intricate geometric arrangements of polished multi-coloured stones.

How do I date an antique seal?

Dating relies on stylistic clues in the metal mount, hallmark stamps where present, and the architectural form of the swivel frame. Georgian and early Victorian seals often feature heavier hand chasing and deeper bezels. Later Edwardian and twentieth-century examples tend towards lighter gauge gold mounts and mass-produced swivel mechanisms.