A grand antique albert chain made up of solid sterling silver curb links which have been gilded in 18ct yellow gold and increase in size toward the centre. It’s complete with a T-Bar and an extension of chain at the bottom where a medallion would have been held. 

Albert chains were named after Prince Albert and were used by wealthy Victorian gentlemen to secure a pocket watch by attaching it via the T-bar to the buttonhole of a waistcoat. They later became a popular accessory for women as well and converted into beautiful necklaces and bracelets.      

The bulk of the chain was made in Chester in 1878 and is complete with clear hallmarks and sterling lion passants upon each link. The claw clasps and T-Bar appear to have been added during the early 20^th Century and are hallmarked Birmingham 1908 & 1918. 

WEIGHT: 53.3 grams 

MEASURES: Length 19.5 inches x Width 7mm across the widest links – T-bar Length 39mm x Width 3mm x Drop 26mm down 

METAL: Sterling Silver, gilded in 18ct Gold 

AGE: Victorian/ Edwardian (1878 – 1918) 

MARKS: Chester & Birmingham hallmarks, Sterling lion passants, Maker’s initials (H.P.) 

CONDITION: Excellent 

ITEM NUMBER: 21-835