Mother of Pearl Cufflinks

During the Victorian period jewels often conveyed secret messages and hidden meanings.  The first letter of the names of the gemstones set in a bracelet or ring might spell out an endearment such as "DEAREST" or "REGARDS".  Or the elements of a brooch or stickpin might be a rebus (picture puzzle) "spelling out" a common phrase.

Perhaps that is the case with these cufflinks.  The stylized laurel wreath borders ("laurels to the victor") and mother-of-pearl centers ("pearls of wisdom") may celebrate an important academic victory (perhaps a milestone graduation) or express a sentiment such as "May victors be wise."

As with all fine jewels,  you should closely examine estate cufflinks from every direction.  These cufflinks are beautifully crafted with sturdy brackets and strong cross bars to secure the links on the cuff.  The backs are crafted in 14kt gold and polished to a bright finish.

The gold purity mark ("14K") and the maker's mark of Carter, Howe & Company are stamped on the backs of the cufflinks.  The maker's mark is an arrowhead surrounding a small "C".  Carter, Howe (later Carter, Gough) created elegant, beautifully crafted cufflinks and other jewels from about 1840 to the early 1930s.

Name:  Wisdom and Victory!

Cost:  Although these elegant cufflinks have sold,  you will find many more fine cufflinks in the Antique Cufflink Gallery.

Measurements:  These 14kt gold cufflinks are 9/16" in diameter.  They weigh in total 8.0 grams.