Carter Serpent and Sapphire Stickpin The Serpent and The Sapphire |
| A covetous serpent slithers up a slippery,
gold pole seeking a sparkling sapphire. The serpent is
wonderfully sculpted with a determined, if benign expression,
richly textured scales and a sinuous, twisting body. The
scales have a shimmering greenish-yellow and rose patina - ideal
coloring for the sartorially elegant reptile. This
wonderful jewel was created by Carter, Howe & Co. in 14kt
gold circa 1900. Carter, Howe & Co. was founded in 1841 and created fine stickpins, brooches and other jewels for the next 90 years. The firm's jewels often featured whimsical and fantastic creatures that sometimes told a story. For example, this stickpin may be an allegory illustrating the dangers of excessive desire or, perhaps, the triumph of beauty and virtue over evil. Cost: $545 Measurements: The 14kt gold stickpin is 2 7/8" long and weighs 2.0 grams. The serpent top measure is 5/8" tall by 9/16" wide. The Carter, Howe maker's mark (a small "C" inside an arrowhead) is stamped on the back of the dragon's head just to the right of the "14K" precious metal mark. |
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Here are a few more elegant jewels from the
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| Antique Jewelry Galleries Antique Stickpin Gallery If you have any questions, suggestions or comments, I can be reached at arthur@jewelryexpert.com or 978 412-6633.
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