How do I use an antique seal?

To use an antique seal, you heat sealing wax until molten and drop a pool onto your paper. Press the intaglio matrix firmly into the warm wax and hold it steady for a moment before lifting. While many collectors still use them with modern sealing wax, delicate hardstone seals require gentle handling to preserve the antique stone.

What materials are the seals made from?

The mounts are constructed from gold, silver, steel, gilt metal, or gold-cased brass. Handles and fob settings frequently incorporate hardstones like carnelian, chalcedony, and bloodstone. Some desk sets also utilise coloured glass matrices or organic materials such as wood for desk seals.

How can I tell the period?

Dating relies on the style of the metalwork, the cutting technique of the intaglio, and the form of the fob or handle. Neoclassical motifs and specific heraldic conventions often point to the georgian era. Materials such as cut steel and specific gold standards also help narrow down the manufacturing decade.