Description
Mounted in German SilverÂ
From our Silver collection, we are delighted to present this rare Silver Mounted Blue John Vinaigrette dating to circa 1890.
The vinaigrette is of ovoid form, crafted from Blue John, a distinctive semi-precious fluorite stone mined in Derbyshire, displaying its signature bands of violet, blue and golden-yellow hues. The stone is mounted with finely worked German silver (800/1000 fineness), with a pierced silver ball top designed to unscrew for the insertion of scented sponges. These portable vinaigrettes offered a sweet-smelling refreshment when carried through the streets of the 19th century.
The silver mounts are struck with the German Crescent and Crown hallmark (Halbmond und Reichskrone), indicating solid silver of 800 standard. Traces of the original silver-gilt finish remain throughout the external silver. Though the maker’s mark is indistinct from wear, the craftsmanship is clear in the delicate chased floral garland decoration.The vinaigrette is offered in its original retailer’s fitted case, silk and velvet lined, from F & R Gibbs Ltd., The Jewellers, Nottingham.
This is a fine late 19th-century example of continental silver-mounted Blue John, highly collectible both for its unusual form and the use of Derbyshire’s most famous semi-precious stone.
F. & R. Gibbs Ltd
was a jewellers and clockmaker based in Nottingham, England founded by Frederick Gibbs C.1860s-70s (1864-1877) with locations on Milton Street and Goose Gate, two central and historically commercial streets in the city. F. & R. Gibbs worked as both retailers and suppliers, purchasing silver and gold-mounted goods from workshops in places such as Birmingham, Sheffield, London, and throughout Europe presenting them under their brand.
Blue JohnÂ
is a rare and beautiful variety of fluorspar found only in a few caves near Castleton in Derbyshire, England. It’s known for its striking bands of purple, blue, and creamy yellow — colours that give it a distinctive, almost otherworldly appearance. Mined since the 18th century, Blue John was especially popular during the Georgian and Victorian periods, often used in decorative objects, jewellery, and inlays for grand furniture. Because it’s so limited in supply, pieces made with genuine Blue John are prized by collectors today, and the stone remains closely tied to British heritage.
Measurements
6.5cm High x 2cm Diameter (2.56 x 0.8 Inches)
Condition
Very Good, antique wear consistent with age
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