18K White Gold Vintage Ornately Chased Floral Pill Box
Pill Box / Snuff Box / Objet d'art · White Gold; likely alloyed with nickel or palladium, showing a cool, silvery luster.
Purity: 18K (750 fineness); containing 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Type
Pill Box / Snuff Box / Objet d'art
Purity
18K (750 fineness); containing 75% pure gold and 25% alloy metals.
Gold Type
White Gold; likely alloyed with nickel or palladium, showing a cool, silvery luster.
Weight
35 to 50 grams; solid construction with heavy relief work.
Description
An exquisite 18K white gold pill box featuring a rectangular canted-corner silhouette. The lid is masterfully decorated with a pierced relief depicting a central bird amidst blooming roses and foliage. The sides are further detailed with a repeating floral band and a beaded grain border, representing a fusion of luxury utility and fine art jewelry design.
Key Features
Hand-chased floral motifs, pierced openwork lid (ajouré), beaded bezel detailing, and a high-purity precious metal construction.
Color & Finish
Silver-white hue with a high-polish reflective frame and a frosted/relief texture on the chased areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '750' or with a French eagle's head assay mark on the inner rim or base; maker's mark currently obscured.
Dimensions Estimate
45mm Length x 30mm Width x 20mm Height; petite/handheld size.
Gemstones & Inlays
No gemstones; features intricate pierced (ajouré) gold work showcasing a bird and roses.
Clasp & Closure
Hinged lid with a friction-fit snap closure; high-precision seamless alignment.
Chain & Links
Not applicable; feature solid rectangular base walls with a thumb-lip for opening.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-finished relief work; the pierced lid requires expert piercing and filing; the beaded border is likely achieved through a graining tool or precision casting followed by hand-sharpening.
Authentication Indicators
The crispness of the chasing, the weight-to-volume ratio typical of 18K gold, and the absence of 'brassing' (which would reveal base metal if plated).
Origin & Maker
Likely European origin (specifically French or Italian) due to the style of the chasing and bead-set border.
Era & Period
Vintage mid-20th Century (1940s-1960s) with traditional Neo-Rococo influences.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950; suggested by the specific white gold alloy tone and the style of the floral repoussé.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the post-war European tradition of 'luxury smalls'—functional items crafted with the same rigor as high jewelry.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface scratches consistent with use; hinge is tight; no visible thinning of the decorative high-relief areas.
Value Estimate
Estimated $2,800 - $4,200 USD; based on current gold spot prices (~$2,000/oz at time of appraisal) plus a significant premium for craftsmanship and vintage collectible appeal.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft brush and warm soapy water; avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the box contains organic residue; store in a felt-lined compartment.
Similar Items
Sterling Silver Repoussé Boxes (lighter/less valuable), 14K Yellow Gold Art Deco Pill Boxes (warmer tone/geometric style), or Vermeil (gold-over-silver) alternatives.
Interesting Facts
Small gold boxes were historically status symbols used for snuff or expensive confections before becoming dedicated pill boxes in the 20th century.