Essex Crystal Fish Stick Pin | Whimsical Miniature in Gold | French, 1877

A rare and charming French stick pin, made in 1877 and inscribed with the words “Souvenir du 19 Mai 1877 A.A.K à T.B.” - a personal memento, still full of character nearly 150 years later.

The top is set with a wonderfully detailed Essex crystal carving of a single fish, hand-painted in reverse onto a domed crystal cabochon and backed in gold foil to give it life and depth.

It’s framed in a 18 carat gold milgrain border and mounted on a long, twisted gold pin, beautifully made and surprisingly robust.

These Essex crystal miniatures were feats of craftsmanship and often given as tokens of affection or memory.

This one is especially vivid: the fish seems to swim within its little glass world.

Still wearable today: as a pin on a tie, lapel, or scarf - it’s also a collector’s piece, holding time and sentiment in one of the most charming formats imaginable.

Length 9cm Top 2cm

Available exclusively at ELTONS, Grays Antique Market, Mayfair, London.