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An unusual Victorian tiger’s claw pendant, dating to circa 1870 and most likely originating from British India during the early decades of the Raj.Tiger-claw jewellery became particularly fashionable amongst British residents and travellers in India during the 19th century. Claws were mounted in precious metal as exotic souvenirs, but could also carry a talismanic significance: animal-derived jewellery was traditionally associated with the perceived strength, courage and power of the creature from which it came.This example retains a substantial natural tiger claw, capped in an angular 15K gold mount which follows the upper profile of the claw. The pendant is unmarked but tests as 15K gold. A later gold bail has been added, allowing it to be worn easily on a chain today.Surviving antique tiger-claw jewellery is increasingly unusual. Modern international trade in tiger parts is prohibited or very tightly controlled, making documented antique examples a distinct category of historic jewellery and subject to relevant wildlife-trade regulations.Date: c.1870Origin: Probably British IndiaMetal: 15K gold, unmarked and testedWeight: 2.22gPendant: approx. 2 × 1.5cmCondition: Good antique condition with surface wear consistent with age; later gold bail.
An unusual Victorian tiger’s claw pendant, dating to circa 1870 and most likely originating from British India during the early decades of the Raj.
Tiger-claw jewellery became particularly fashionable amongst British residents and travellers in India during the 19th century. Claws were mounted in precious metal as exotic souvenirs, but could also carry a talismanic significance: animal-derived jewellery was traditionally associated with the perceived strength, courage and power of the creature from which it came.
This example retains a substantial natural tiger claw, capped in an angular 15K gold mount which follows the upper profile of the claw. The pendant is unmarked but tests as 15K gold. A later gold bail has been added, allowing it to be worn easily on a chain today.
Surviving antique tiger-claw jewellery is increasingly unusual. Modern international trade in tiger parts is prohibited or very tightly controlled, making documented antique examples a distinct category of historic jewellery and subject to relevant wildlife-trade regulations.
Date: c.1870
Origin: Probably British India
Metal: 15K gold, unmarked and tested
Weight: 2.22g
Pendant: approx. 2 × 1.5cm
Condition: Good antique condition with surface wear consistent with age; later gold bail.
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