Description
Gibson Girl Era pin made between 1900-1905. The C clasp on this pin needs tightening to hold the rod in place….This is a lovely hallmarked and numbered Alvin Manufacturing (most famously know for Bridal Rose flatware and sterling silver accessories and jewelry items from 1886 on) sterling silver minimalist turn of the century oval circle pin. See below for information on the “plain silver craze” from 1900 to 1905. It is tested and guaranteed solid sterling silver…..not plated. Size is 1 1/8″ north to south by 1 5/8″ across east to west. It is completely original from an estate from many years ago and has not been touched or altered. Most unusual in that it was never monogrammed or inscribed. The pin rod sometimes has a tendency to fall under and out of the C Clasp. I assume the clasp should be pushed forward a little so it is tighter or the pin rod changed to a longer rod. This original rod is still sharp at the end so I don’t believe that it wore down from use…Other than this it is in excellent overall condition. No dents or dings. No Damage or repair. All original. Never altered. No tears or obvious scratches. No gauges. Has some age patina that could be polished out. This is a lovely antique minimalist pin for any lapel, neck scarf, waist sash etc… made by a well known American antique silver maker for your antique jewelry and accessories collection.
Hardware Timeline: The simple “C-clasp” (an open wire hook with no locking safety lever) was the standard mechanism used by jewelers throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. Locking safety catches began replacing them in the 1920s.
- Early Alvin Production: The Alvin Manufacturing Company was founded in 1886. During their first few decades, they frequently produced small sterling silver novelties, dress clips, and open sash/collar pins alongside their famous flatware patterns.
- The Style: Lightweight, open oval circle pins from this period were traditionally worn as “sash pins” or “collar pins”. Women used them to secure delicate lace collars, scarves, or high-necked Edwardian blouses without tearing the fabrics.
-
- The “Gibson Girl” Look: At the turn of the 20th century, women’s fashion moved toward shirtwaists (tailored button-down blouses) and skirts. This look demanded simpler, more practical jewelry. Plain sterling silver oval and circle pins were explicitly marketed for everyday wear to secure neckties, collars, and scarves.
- The “Plain Silver” Craze: Around 1898–1905, there was a major trend in American sterling silver manufacturing for completely unadorned, polished surfaces. Rather than heavy Victorian engraving, the focus was entirely on the smooth, reflective quality of the silver.
- Pin Stem Length: While 19th-century pins almost always had long, dangerous spikes extending past the edge of the frame to grip heavy shawls, the turn of the century brought shorter, flush-fitting pin stems designed for lightweight fabrics. The fact that yours fits cleanly under the clasp without hanging over confirms it was intended for these lighter Edwardian textiles.
