Early Victorian 9kt + Gunmetal Retractable Double Pencil Pendant

A rare and incredible pendant fob from the Early Victorian era (ca1850)! This unusual piece is crafted in gunmetal with 9kt rose gold accents, creating a striking mixed metals design. Rather substantial in length, this barrel shaped pendant holds two mechanical pencils hidden inside of a unique retractable design. A slider on either side of the fob can be moved down the barrel shaft, each revealing a pencil that protrudes from the bottom, otherwise hidden within a small compartment inside. Each slider features a gorgeous bezel-set glass cabochon, one blue and one red, indicating the wax color of the pencil inside, a fabulous design accent! Once each rose gold pencil is exposed, a twisting mechanism raises and lowers the colored wax, adding to this piece’s incredible and unique craftsmanship. At the tip of pendant is a polished cap and finishing the design is a simple ring bail, perfect for hanging from a favorite chain. Truly one-of-a-kind, this outstanding pendant fob is a perfect addition to any collection!

Measurements: The entire piece hangs approximately 3 1/8″ long (including the ring bail), and the gunmetal barrel measures about 3/8″ wide. Each pencil measures 1 1/8″ long, with a 1/8″ diameter.  

Condition: The overall condition of the piece is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, there is no apparent damage to the gunmetal setting or rose gold accents. The sliders and twisted mechanism of the pencils move smoothly and securely, and the original colored wax is worn, however it is intact and in good working order. The glass cabochons are both secure and intact.