A Most Handsome Portrait Miniature Mystery
Oh we love a mystery, and our interest was piqued when this charming little painting came our way. A miniature portrait, kept safe in it's handmade leather and silk case over two centuries. Beautifully painted on brass, which in itself is unusual. We wondered at his story; his face has the bloom...
Why is a Carat so named? Carob Beans and Carats
The story of how the Carob became the Carat. In ancient days before our current set of weights and measurements had been arrived at traders around the Mediterranean needed to be able to judge the weight of a given item in order to decide its value, and they discovered that...
Darkly Sparkling - Cut Steel Jewellery
The making of Cut Steel accessories and jewellery originated in England in the 17th century. It is believed that the technique of 'ornamental steelwork' first developed in the town of Woodstock in Oxfordshire, as this industry which was well established by 1720 became famous for 'the finest, most elaborate and expensive workmanship in...
Rare Georgian Hand Carved Chinese Imperial Hediao Nut Necklace
Hidden away for so many years, we are privileged to share this incredible Georgian beauty with you! A piece of truly exceptional quality and rarity, circa 1820, this magnificent antique chain linked swagged/panel necklace has quite the most staggering amount of minute detail in every hand worked aspect! A very delicate creation;...
A Very Short History of Our Shop in The Lanes, Brighton
The Lanes is the oldest part of Brighton and full of 'olde worlde' character. Our shop at 48 Meeting House Lane (on the right in this photograph here, just past the pole across the lane) has been known as The Witch Ball since 1964, having been built most likely during the 1790's....