-->
  • Necklace and Earrings, about 1840-1875

    Necklace and Earrings, about 1840-1875

    While amethyst is not considered a particularly rare or desirable stone today (it is a quartz and rather soft) it was much prized in the nineteenth century.Until the late nineteenth century, when Brazilian deposits of amethyst were found, amethysts were considered important stones in expensive jewelry.This is an interesting half set, as the necklace has the style and delicacy of the 1840s, but the earrings resemble those popular in the 1870s.Research has revealed that the business stamped on the…

  • Masonic Pin with Case, 1865

    Masonic Pin with Case, 1865

    Research indicates that this Masonic piece represents the Royal Arch Masons.Characteristics include the keystone shape and jewel decorations.In 1855, Fowle was Master of Mt. Tabor Lodge, East Boston, Massachusetts.The Freemasons are the world's largest fraternal organization.What is known as modern Freemasons began in 1717 in England; however, the history of the legend of the Freemasons dates far back to biblical times with the building of King Solomon's temple and written evidence of the Freema…