Shell Inlay Pin Appraisal

Abalone Inlay Stick Pin

This item is a stick pin featuring an oval-shaped abalone inlay at its head. The abalone shell exhibits a vibrant iridescence, displaying a captivating play of colors including greens, blues, creams, and grays, characteristic of natural mother-of-pearl. The cabochon-cut abalone piece is set within a dark, likely metal, bezel setting, which holds it securely in place and provides a neat border. The pin portion is a slender, polished metallic shaft, appearing silvery in tone, possibly rhodium-plated base metal or sterling silver, though no hallmarks are visible in the image to confirm the metal composition. The shaft tapers slightly towards a pointed end, designed for piercing fabric. At the opposite end of the shaft from the abalone, there is a cylindrical or tubular metal cap, which serves as a clutch or guard to secure the pin when worn. This cap also appears to be made of a silvery-toned metal, consistent with the shaft. The overall condition appears good with a bright, reflective surface on the metal components, indicating minimal tarnish or wear. The abalone inlay shows no apparent chips or cracks. The pin's design suggests a style that could range from late Art Deco to mid-20th century, or even contemporary, given the timeless appeal of abalone. The craftsmanship on the setting appears neat, with the abalone uniformly seated within the bezel. No maker's marks, signatures, or specific manufacturing details are discernible from the provided images.