We have similar Masonic and Art Nouveau items, which would pair nicely with this piece, for sale this week. To view in separate listings, please visit our store and search "Masonic" or "Nouveau" under our items.
Listing Description by: Cait P.
The Piece
Age Circa: Art Nouveau C. 1890 - 1920
Markings: Unidentified maker's mark (S&C) on the backings, tested, and guaranteed
Country of Origin: Unknown
Brand: S&C
Gram Weight: 5.8 grams
Metal Type: 14k rose gold filled over base metal
Material: --
Main Stone: --
Main Stone Measurements/Color: --
Accent Stone: --
Accent Stone Measurements/Color: --
Stone Treatment: --
Stone Cuts: --
Item Measurements:
Total length: 0.80"
Face of cufflinks: 0.55" diameter
Convertible to Earrings: If desired, your local jeweler can most likely convert these cufflinks to earrings.
Notable Features:
- Handmade during the Art Nouveau era
- Composed of 14k rose and yellow gold filled over base metal
- Features chased motifs of a square and compass within which sits the letter "G", all symbols associated with the Free Masons
- Completed with fixed button backings
Damage: Age appropriate wear.
*This listing is for the item only. All display boxes and/or photography props do not come with your purchase.*
The History
The Art Nouveau era, 1890-1910, was also called "La Belle Epoque" in French, which translates to "A Beautiful Time.” This was very true due to the gorgeous designs that came out of this period. This era focused on women, and the beauty of nature and the pieces were often large. Enamel was a standard material used in order Art Nouveau jewelry as the period was more about the importance of the design over the materials used to create it. The Art Nouveau period happened before the start of the first World War, when mass manufacturing took over the production of many products, including some jewelry.
Gold filled jewelry consists of an outer solid gold layer over a metal base, and 5% of its weight should be derived from gold. This solid layer of gold is laid over a base of sterling silver or some other kind of metal to produce a high-quality gold look.
Chasing is a metalworking technique that uses a nail-like tool and hammer to hand etch patterns onto a metal surface. This process creates a design that is sunk into the front of the surface using indentations, grooves, and channels. Chasing is thousands of years old and was a very difficult and time-consuming technique that is still used by metalsmiths today.
Connect with us!
Follow us on Instagram! @abeautifultimeco
Product code: Antique Vintage Art Nouveau 14k Rose Gold Filled order GF Masonic MENS Cufflinks 5.8g