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Antiques! => Antique Questions Forum => Topic started by: ssauble on February 05, 2006, 11:30:07 PM

Title: Confusing Patent engraving on a 10K Gold, Ruby pin
Post by: ssauble on February 05, 2006, 11:30:07 PM

Looking through my grandmother's "lower end" jewelry, I stumbled upon this 10K gold ruby pin with a patent number that has left me a little confused.  The engraving on the lock seems to read, "PAT 5-17-10."

I've searched the patent database.  The number had been given to a gate lock in 1856.  Why would this be showing up on a lock for a pin?  And would it say anything towards its age?

Any input, insight would be very much appreciated.
(http://www.indigohr.org/~staylor/a/DSCN1387.jpg)

Best wishes,
Stephan

Title: Confusing Patent engraving on a 10K Gold, Ruby pin
Post by: kerryandbee on February 06, 2006, 12:29:00 PM

Just thinking out loud - could that be the date of the patent? A jeweler can sometimes tell the date of a pin by how its clasp is made.    KB