Mother of Pearl & Abalone Cigarette Case

A beautiful late 19th century cigarette case intricately veneered in luminous mother of pearl and richly colored abalone shell. The geometric checkerboard design pairs softly iridescent mother of pearl with vivid flashes of green, blue, pink, and violet abalone, creating an especially jewel-like effect as it catches the light. Features a plain silver cartouche on top.

Originally created as a cigarette case, this petite antique is equally lovely repurposed today for jewelry, keepsakes, or simply displayed as a decorative object. Its slim silhouette and remarkable natural iridescence make it a particularly special example of 19th century shellwork.

Late 19th Century
Sourced in France
Dimensions: 5.25"L × 2"W