Ornate Gold Pendant Opens At Top -----For What??????

[babaloo54]

Can anyone tell me what this pendant might have been used for?  It is heavy so I cannot imagine wearing it for long periods of time.  Measures 2 1/4" tall and 1  1/2" across.  No markings that I can find.  Thanks!!!!

[bojibelle · Accepted solution]

It is a match safe (case)

[1940fc]

Would have been attached to a chatelaine, Boji?

[babaloo54]

Bojibelle thank you!!!!! I would have never guessed that it was for matches.....

[bojibelle]

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@1940fc wrote:

Would have been attached to a chatelaine, Boji?

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That or for a man, attached to a multiple watch chain or fob.

[babaloo54]

Thank you so much for asking this..... I wondered......

[babaloo54]

.....do you think it is just a new decorative piece?

[bojibelle]

I did a little quick research and I think it is a modern reproduction based on the fact that the hinge protrudes from the case.  The antique ones the hinge is flush with the outside of the case. 

[babaloo54]

Thank you Bojibelle.....so grateful for your help!!!!!

[mayaphiliotis1535]

Not certain about it being a match safe (also known as a vesta), those usually have a strike plate at the bottom  -- don't see one on this piece.

[bojibelle]

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@mayaphiliotis1535 wrote:

Not certain about it being a match safe (also known as a vesta), those usually have a strike plate at the bottom  -- don't see one on this piece.

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It is a modern repro so probably never intended for use.