Bidspirit auction | Antique Stone and Gold Retractable

Antique Stone and Gold Retractable Propelling Mechanical Pencil with Citrine Seal Top - This antique mechanical propelling pencil features a hexagonal barrel crafted from a dark, variegated hardstone, likely agate or bloodstone, exhibiting a natural grain. The instrument is detailed with yellow gold or gold-cased metal bands and a decorative terminal. The top of the pencil consists of an ornate, foliate-chased gallery set with a large, faceted yellow gemstone, consistent with citrine or yellow paste, which serves as a seal. A small suspension loop is integrated into the upper metal band, typical for attachment to a chatelaine. The pencil operates via a slider mechanism housed within a vertical slot along one facet of the stone barrel. The metalwork displays intricate engine-turned or chased designs on the rings and terminal. No maker's marks, hallmarks, or signatures are visible on the stone or metal surfaces. Length: 3 5/8 inches. The stone barrel shows a significant longitudinal crack and associated material loss along the facet containing the slider slot (photo 6, 8, and 10). The external sliding ring or knob is missing from the slot (photo 9). The writing tip is currently empty, with the internal lead-carrying mechanism not visible (photo 6). There is visible tarnish and surface wear to the gold-toned bands and the chased terminal (photo 7). The faceted yellow gemstone shows minor surface abrasions consistent with use (photo 4).