Lovely antique silver and operculum shell pin.

Operculum shell jewellery was particularly popular in the Victorian and Edwardian era. Made from the calcified "trapdoor" of marine snails this jewellery was worn as protective amulets and to ward off evil spirits. Often seen in necklaces, brooches and cufflinks.

Stick pins were used from 1830s to the 1920s for fixing and holding a gentleman’s cravat in place. By the 1890's stick pins were also emerging in womenswear often as hat pins but also in sportswear. In 1909, as the suffragette movement was gathering momentum there were fears that hat pins could be used as weapons. This lead to a bill being passed instructing that women’s pins had to be 9 inches long or less.

The shell is measures 2.5cm in diameter and in total the pin measures 7cm.

This unique piece of jewellery may have signs of wear due to its history. It is beautifully imperfect and should be treated with love and care. This pin is in good antique condition.