Amethyst Double Inkstand

This is an unusual inkstand, which combines the organic beauty of a mineral specimen with desk accessories.

Description

• Stand/Base: The base is the most striking feature, being a large, irregular slab of raw Amethyst.
  • The amethyst exhibits deep purple coloration with sections of white/clear quartz running through it, creating a natural, chevron-like or banded pattern known as Amethyst Banding or Chevron Amethyst.
  • The base has been cut and polished on the top surface, but the sides retain a rugged, natural edge, emphasizing the geological origin of the material.
  • The shape is an irregular rectangular form.
• Inkwells: There are two matching inkwells mounted atop the base.
  • Each inkwell body is an egg-shaped piece of polished amethyst.
  • The metal mountings appear to be silvered metal (possibly brass or pewter with a silver finish).
  • The lids are domed and hinged, allowing access to the ink reservoir inside the amethyst body. The hinged lids feature a small thumb knob for easy opening.
  • The inkwells are elevated on short metal stems or pedestals that secure them to the amethyst base.

Age and Origin Estimate

• Origin: Pieces utilizing natural mineral specimens as a base for inkstands were popular in several regions, particularly South America (Brazil, Uruguay, known for amethyst), and Europe. Without distinct marks, the country is hard to pin down, but the style is characteristic of Continental European or Brazilian Export desk accessories.
• Age Estimate:
  • The use of opulent, natural materials like amethyst for desk sets saw a peak in popularity during the Late Victorian and Art Nouveau eras.
  • The simple, elegant, and somewhat unadorned silvered metal mountings suggest a date range of circa 1880 – 1910.

This inkstand belongs to a class of luxury desk accessories where the primary focus is on the inherent beauty and rarity of the natural material.