Pinchbeck Gold Chain from Victorian England

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Pinchbeck Gold Chain from Victorian England

About the Item

"Pinchbeck" is the term used to describe the gold-like (but not gold) metal invented by 18th-century clockmaker-slash-Mad Scientist, Christopher Pinchbeck, who invented an alloy that looked, felt and behaved like gold but was in fact mostly copper and zinc and maybe something else. I purchased this 42" pinchbeck chain about a decade ago from a clockmaker's daughter and collector of historical jewelry. I had never heard of Pinchbeck until she educated me. What I love about it is that it does, in fact, pass for gold. It's been over 100 years and it still hasn't tarnished. Of course, the clip which is inserted into the barrel-closure has darkened with time and use. But the clasp is still every bit as strong as it was when it was created. This is a very sturdy necklace. 42" is a fantastic length. On a woman of average height, this necklace will terminate just above the belly-button. You can add a fob or a charm to it if you like, but it's quite impressive exactly as it is. The round links have a stippled texture that has been worn smooth in places over time, as one would expect with a necklace of this age. But it's entirely original and has not been bastardized with a later clasp, so that's quite exciting. Pinchbeck jewelry was somewhat popular following its invention in the late 1700s. People who might otherwise not be in a position to comfortably afford 18k yellow gold jewelry could now purchase beautifully-crafted pieces made from this novel Pinchbeck alloy that looked like rich 18k gold. And wealthy people certainly traveled with pinchbeck chains instead of their good gold chains, just like Princess Diana was not above wearing "costume" jewelry when she traveled. Pinchbeck is rare. It's rarer than gold. This "cheap" substitute for the real thing has become a real thing in its own right. And rightfully so. This is a bold, unique necklace in excellent condition. A true find.

Metal:
Pinchbeck
Weight:
34.69 g
Dimensions:
Width: 0.17 in (4.32 mm)Length: 42 in (1,066.8 mm)
Style:
Victorian
Place of Origin:
England
Period:
1830-1839
Date of Manufacture:
Circa 1830-1840
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Excellent antique condition. All original components are without damage or signs of repair.
Seller Location:
Southbury, CT
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU158917836541