Antique Chains:
The Albert and Beyond
In the world of antique jewellery, the Albert chain stands as a staple of Victorian gentility. named after Prince Albert, these chains were designed to secure a pocket watch to a waistcoat buttonhole. Today, they are often repurposed as necklaces or bracelets, keeping the market active.
Collectors categorize these by link style—Curb, Belcher, and Fetter being the most common. The classic “Double Albert” features two chains (one for the watch, one for a vesta case or sovereign holder) and a central T-bar. Material is the primary value driver: 9ct and 15ct rose gold examples are highly sought after, known for a warm, coppery hue that modern gold lacks.
Collector’s Tip: Hallmarks are your best friend here. On a top-quality Victorian chain, every single link should ideally be stamped with a tiny gold standard mark (e.g., “9 . 375”). Also, watch out for “Pinchbeck”—an 18th/19th-century alloy of copper and zinc that mimics gold superbly.
While collectable in its own right, it should not be priced as solid gold
