What would this be called or used for (Silver container with stones)

[bob535]

I have this silver (pretty sure it is silver) container thing, and have no idea what to call it, or what it would have been used for. It looks as though someone has tried to clean it with something and it has dried on (if anyone could help with that that would be awesome too  ) one side of it is black-ish in color, and the side that has the dried stuff on it is closer to silver...

There are two tiny loops on each side that I think could have had a strap to it (like a purse or something). On the inside it is lined with some kind of material...don't know if that is original or not...doesnt seem to match the piece. It is about 6 inches tall....

The stones on it are raw stones (I mean uncut)

No marks that i can find...

Here are some pictures 









 

[mart]

I am thinking a Victorian chatelaine or at least part of one !! Seems a bit big to me but could be !!  Let me see if I can find a pic !!

[bob535]

Cool!! Thanks mart....if you find a pic of one that would be cool....At least now I have something better to go on than silver container thing 

[mart]

For some reason google is not letting me copy & paste the pic I want !!  Try googling "Victorian Chatelaine" and look at the thumbnails that are shown. Third or fourth one from left has one that hangs like yours does !! A chatelaine is something that a victorian lady would have when she went out !! It had everything she might need connected to a belt clip, or pin and many hung by small chains !!  There were variations according to what the individual needed !!  Might have perfume, nail file, change purse, "which is what I think yours was" powder container, rouge ect !!

[bob535]

I can see it.....Kinda like the ladies in this pic??

Any idea what the value on something like this would be, missing the chain?

[mart]

Yes, thats what I think !!  Some of the other members are excellent on victorian pieces !!  Maybe they will be on tomorrow and give their take on your piece !!  Lets see if they agree or have a different idea !! I will look around and see what they sell for !! I am sure you won`t get rich from it but you need an approx. value taking into account that its missing its chain and clasp !! 

[jondar]

I hadn't a clue as to what your item was, but I believe that the type of stones that are on it are called cabuchons.  FWIW

[bob535]

Thanks jondar!! That was valuable info, If i decide to sell it I have a description of the stone work, I had no idea.