O’hegerty De Magnières : Rock Crystal & Gold Rotating Seal. Marquis. 18th - 19th Century

A magnificent rock crystal and gold seal. It likely dates from the late 18th and/or early 19th century.

The rotating matrix is ​​made of rock crystal. It is engraved on three sides:
. A coat of arms beneath a marquis's coronet, blazoned as follows: Argent, an oak tree eradicated vert; on a chief gules, three martlets argent. These arms belong to the O’Hegerty de Magnières family.
. A monogram beneath a marquis's coronet: POH (?)
. A rooster mounting a hen, accompanied by the scroll inscription "Gratias".

My thanks to Mr. Francis Sanchez for identifying the coat of arms.

The engravings are superb—very fine and detailed—ensuring great legibility.
The faceted sides of the matrix catch and reflect the light like a gemstone.

The crystal is of very high quality; it is highly translucent with only a few rare inclusions.

The rose gold handle features a palmette and scroll motif. The suspension loop is made of yellow gold.
It may postdate the matrix itself, which appears to date from the 18th century, judging by the quality and style of the engraving and the crystal used.

The gold handle bears a hallmark:
. A scallop shell, used for new and second-hand items of 14k fineness.
However, the test mark withstands 18k acid but disappears with 24k acid. I have previously encountered objects with this scallop shell hallmark that were subsequently stamped with the "owl" mark for 18k gold. Thus, the scallop shell hallmark appears to attest to a minimum fineness of 14k, and possibly higher.


This seal is magnificent; the use of rock crystal for the rotating matrix makes it a rare and interesting piece. The engravings are varied and of exceptional quality. 3.5 cm high (excluding the bail)
2.6 cm wide

Crystals measure approximately 2 x 1.8 cm

14.9 grams

Very good condition. A few tiny nicks on the crystal.

Hand delivery in Paris or insured Colissimo shipping.

France: €15
Europe: €20
Worldwide: €35