Secret, Double, And Swiveling Masonic Seal, Made Of Gold, Agate, And Blood Jasper — Second Empire

Napoleon III period, circa 1850–1870

750‰ gold, two-layered agate, and bloodstone.

Height: 4 cm excluding the bail

Width: 3.1 cm at the square

Weight: 12.18 g

A rare gold Masonic seal with a system design, featuring the emblematic compass and square as its handle, entirely engraved with scrollwork and geometric motifs.

The lower section features an ingenious double pivoting seal, alternately displaying a two-layered agate—white edged with orange-brown—and a bloodstone or heliotrope, characterized by its dark green background dotted with red inclusions.

The object’s most remarkable feature is its secret mechanism: the pivoting section opens on its own via a hinge, revealing inside a double frame that forms a small concealed compartment, intended to hold or accommodate an element that is now missing or unidentified.

The richness of the engraved decoration extends even to the oval stone settings, which are finely chiseled with foliage motifs. Hinges, pins, and the pivoting mechanism are fully integrated into the design, making this piece of jewelry a true work of mechanical goldsmithing.

This particularly elaborate combination—Masonic symbols, a double pivoting seal, and a secret compartment—gives this piece its exceptional character.

The setting bears the French owl hallmark, a hallmark used to certify gold items of foreign or unknown origin, guaranteeing a fineness of 750‰.

In superb condition. A few minor scratches from normal wear, consistent with the piece’s age.