A gold and hardstone vesta case, 19th century, possibly Russian, set with gold flecked quartz and black stone, with milled striker to base. Height 2.44 in., width 1.34 in., depth 0.47 in. Provenance: The Estate of the Hon. Dr John Kennedy McLaughlin Am, Sydney
- Hardstone - Hardstone is not a scientific name for a particular gemstone, but a word used to describe any one or more semi-precious stones used in jewellery and decorative arts, and can include jade, agate, onyx, rock crystal, amber, jet and carnelian. Softer stones and minerals such as soapstone, and alabaster and hard stones used in building such as marble or granite are generally excluded.
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