Victorian solid Gold Masonic Orb Pendant

$4,650.00

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Victorian solid Gold Masonic Orb Pendant

$4,650.00

Description

DATE: Victorian, c.1890

A cool antique masonic orb pendant, modelled in solid 9k yellow gold throughout. The frame that holds it all together is individually hinged, and the closing arms are individually hinged opening to reveal six pyramids arranged as a cross, each face hand-carved with a different masonic symbol: the Eye of Provenance, a skull and crossbones a compass, pyramid, the moon, a set square and so on. Don't ask me what they all mean... Dates from the Victorian period, circa 1890.

There are many well known symbols associated with freemasonry, and probably the most iconic would be the set square and compass. The set square, two equal flat edges arms, usually wooden or metal, fixed to form the perfect "right angle". This tool is important in stonemasonry as it allows craftsmen to draw and carve perfect square corners. In Freemasonry, this symbol is used to teach lessons of morality- that being “square” in your actions is to be honest and fair.

The compass, which I'm sure we have all used at school, symbolizes self restraint. In other words, together the Square and Compasses remind Freemasons to explore their desires without stepping outside the realms of moral behaviour. So, with the addition of the rotating compass base, this could be helpful while finding their way while abiding the rules of self restraint, honesty and fairness.

MEASUREMENTS

Open: 4.3 x 3.1cm

Closed: 2.2 x 1.8cm

WEIGHT

11.2g

MARKS

Stamped 9ct

PAT. APP. FOR REG

CONDITION

Very good, light wear to outer case on the bottom