c1930s Silver and Marcasite Dress Clip
Description
This dress clip immediately caught our attention with its highly unusual shape! Dress clips were a fashionable way to add a decorative touch to an outfit, and they reached a peak of popularity during the 1930s and 1940s. We admire their ability to instantly add dramatic impact to the neckline of a dress or blouse, but we have also seen them used effectively on pockets, bags and belts. This particular clip is a slim shape, and features a stepped design which gradually broadens out towards the top. It is made in silver, and bears the '935' inscription on its reverse side - this differs from the British '925' mark used to identify sterling silver, indicating that this clip has a higher silver content than 92.5%, and is likely to be European (most probably from Germany or France). The majority of the 'steps' displayed by the clip show an openwork structure, with 'V-shaped' centre sections. The clip has been embellished with tiny pieces of polished metal, known as marcasite; these provide a glittering finish, and also emphasise the clip's unusual design. Turning the clip over reveals a hinged section, whose underside is fitted with a serrated edge, to help attach it securely to clothing. Close inspection with a magnifier reveals some letters and numbers scratched onto the surface of the silver nearby, which will date to the time the clip was manufactured. We like the high quality appearance of this clip, whose very individual style further adds to its appeal!
Manufacturer: Unsigned
Country of manufacture:
Not stated
Price: £55.00
Product ref: J497
Condition
Excellent. This striking dress clip has survived in highly desirable condition. It has a bright and sparkling appearance, with all pieces of marcasite being present - any spots of wear to the marcasite can only be detected when using a magnifier. The silver sections of the clip are clean and smooth, and they show only very superficial signs of age in the form of some light scratching. The hinge is tight and strong. The '935' inscription has worn a little over time, but remains visible.
Material: Silver ('935') and marcasite
Measurements: w:18mm (at top) and 5mm (at base) x h:52mm
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