Author Topic: Confusing Patent engraving on a 10K Gold, Ruby pin  (Read 1153 times)

ssauble

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Confusing Patent engraving on a 10K Gold, Ruby pin
« on: February 05, 2006, 11:30:07 pm »
Looking through my grandmother's "lower end" jewelry, I stumbled upon this 10K gold ruby pin with a patent number that has left me a little confused.  The engraving on the lock seems to read, "PAT 5-17-10."

I've searched the patent database.  The number had been given to a gate lock in 1856.  Why would this be showing up on a lock for a pin?  And would it say anything towards its age?

Any input, insight would be very much appreciated.


Best wishes,
Stephan
« Last Edit: February 05, 2006, 11:30:57 pm by ssauble »

kerryandbee

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Confusing Patent engraving on a 10K Gold, Ruby pin
« Reply #1 on: February 06, 2006, 12:29:00 pm »
Just thinking out loud - could that be the date of the patent? A jeweler can sometimes tell the date of a pin by how its clasp is made.    KB