Large 18K Yellow Gold 448g Ribbed Shell Minaudiere Compact Wrist Bag Mirror

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Large 18K Yellow Gold 448g Ribbed Shell Minaudiere Compact Wrist Bag Mirror:
$70000.00

An extraordinary and substantial vintage 18K solid yellow gold evening minaudiere compact of exceptional weight and artisanal craftsmanship. The body is formed as a large oval or egg-shaped shell entirely covered in diagonal parallel ribbing, creating a lustrous textured surface that catches light from every angle. This is a rare dual-function luxury object serving as both a fully fitted powder compact and a wrist minaudiere, complete with its original twisted gold-tone cord and oversized tassel for wrist carry. At 448.60 grams of solid 18K gold, this piece represents one of the most substantial luxury gold objects available on the secondary market today.

DESIGN AND EXTERIOR

The exterior surface features clean diagonal ribbing running uniformly across the entire oval form, rendered in high-polish 18K yellow gold. The proportions are bold and sculptural, measuring approximately 5 to 6 inches in length. The closure is a smooth push-button mechanism inset with an oval cabochon providing a refined thumb press. A solid gold ring bail is attached at the narrow end of the body, serving as the attachment point for the wrist cord. The twisted rope-style cord terminates in a large decorative tassel, allowing the piece to be carried comfortably on the wrist in the manner of a classic minaudiere evening bag.

INTERIOR AND MECHANISMS

The interior is fully fitted and functional. The lid is fitted with a large beveled mirror, clean and bright with no clouding or delamination. The body interior follows the contoured ribbed form and includes a fine gold mesh powder screen or sieve allowing separation of the powder compartment. The gold hinge is substantial and operates smoothly. All mechanical components are in working order.

SPECIFICATIONS

Metal: 18K Solid Yellow Gold Gold Purity: 750 (stamped or tested) Total Weight: 448.60 grams Gold Melt Value at Current Market: Approximately $51,000 to $52,000 Form: Oval shell minaudiere compact Interior Fittings: Beveled mirror, powder compartment, gold mesh screen Closure: Push-button with oval cabochon thumb press Handle: Gold ring bail with twisted cord and tassel wrist strap Era: Vintage, estimated mid-to-late 20th century

INVESTMENT AND COLLECTOR NOTES

At 448.60 grams of 18K gold, the intrinsic gold content alone represents significant value at current market prices, providing a strong floor. Above melt, the piece commands a premium for its sculptural shell form, dual-function design as both compact and minaudiere, original wrist cord, fully functioning mechanical interior, and exceptional weight. Pieces of this caliber and substance are rarely found intact with all original components. A signed example by a named European goldsmithing house would command a multiple of melt; prospective buyers are encouraged to have hallmarks examined by a qualified appraiser or sale specialist prior to purchase.