Victorian silver bloodstone & carnelian spinner fob pendant, hallmarked Birmingham c.1890s

A late Victorian sterling silver spinner fob pendant by Matthew Wilcox & Son, hallmarked in Birmingham and dating to approximately the 1890s.

The pendant features a circular, double-sided stone mounted within a silver frame. One side is set with carnelian, while the reverse is set with bloodstone. The central setting rotates within its silver framework, allowing either stone to be displayed.

Bloodstone and carnelian have a long history in jewellery and personal adornment. Both are varieties of chalcedony, a form of quartz, and were particularly popular for seals and fobs during the Georgian and Victorian periods. Carnelian, with its warm reddish colouring, has traditionally been associated with courage and vitality, while bloodstone has long been regarded as a stone of protection and strength.

Spinner fobs were practical as well as decorative, allowing the wearer to turn between two different stones or engraved surfaces. Originally associated with watch chains and gentlemen's accessories, they are now equally appealing as distinctive pendants worn on a necklace.

Weight: 6.8g

Measurements: 1.3" length (including hanging loop), 0.7" wide

There are hallmarks on the base of the pendant and on one of the arms. 

This is an antique item with some signs of wear but in excellent condition for its age. Please refer to photos as these form part of the description.