Edwardian Sterling Silver and Amethyst Glass Cabochon Paperweight
Decorative Object / Desk Accessory · Likely Liberty & Co. or Birmingham workshop (e.g., William Hair Haseler), renowned for Arts & Crafts and Art Nouveau transition pieces.
Pattern: Cymric-style or Arts & Crafts influence, featuring a semi-precious stone or glass cabochon bezel-set in silver.
Type
Decorative Object / Desk Accessory
Maker
Likely Liberty & Co. or Birmingham workshop (e.g., William Hair Haseler), renowned for Arts & Crafts and Art Nouveau transition pieces.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) mounting with a heavy, dark purple amethyst glass or polished stone cabochon insert.
Dimensions
Diameter approximately 5-7 cm; Height 3-4 cm. Heavy for its size to function as a paperweight (approx. 150-250 grams).
Description
An elegant and substantial desk accessory, this piece features a deep violet cabochon set within a sleek, minimalist sterling silver surround. The design emphasizes the natural beauty of the 'gemstone' over ornate metalwork, typical of high-end Edwardian office appointments.
Key Features
Deep amethyst coloration, seamless bezel mounting, and a weighted bottom for desktop utility.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) mounting with a heavy, dark purple amethyst glass or polished stone cabochon insert.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on the silver bezel rim; the central focus is an 'en cabochon' polished surface. Minimalism reflects the late Arts & Crafts movement.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the side or underside rim: typically includes the Lion Passant (.925), an anchor (Birmingham), and a date letter 'a' through 'm'.
Construction Details
Spun or raised silver bezel rim hand-fitted to a cast stone/glass base. The stone is often secured by a friction fit or internal adhesive.
Functional Features
Weighted base for securing papers; smooth convex surface allows for easy tactile handling on a desktop.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; the entire dome acts as the grip, though some variants feature a small silver finial.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision bezel setting indicates high-quality bench work; the silver gauge is thick enough to withstand daily handling without denting.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of a clear assay office mark on the rim and the natural 'cold' feel of the glass/stone compared to modern acrylic.
Origin & Manufacturing
United Kingdom, likely Birmingham or London; hallmarks would confirm the specific assay office.
Era & Period
Edwardian Era (1901-1910), showing transition from the organic lines of Art Nouveau to the controlled geometry of the early 20th century.
Age Estimate
Circa 1905; based on the specific bezel mounting style and the use of large cabochon glass common in that decade.
Cultural Significance
Represents the shift toward 'functional art' in the domestic sphere during the early 20th century, where even mundane office tools were crafted as jewelry-like objects.
Condition Notes
Very Good; the glass shows minor surface abrasions/flea bites consistent with age; silver rim shows light tarnish and faint contact marks.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD depending on the clarity of hallmarks and the presence of a retail signature.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and a mild silver cream like Wright's. Avoid submerging in water to prevent moisture getting behind the stone.
Similar Pieces
Murano glass weights (no silver), Tiffany & Co. sterling desk sets (often more ornate/engraved).
Interesting Facts
Items like this were often sold by high-end retailers like Liberty of London as part of their 'Cymric' silver line to cater to the burgeoning middle-class professional.