Once the ornate handle of a sterling-silver nail file, this pendant began life as part of an Edwardian manicure set crafted by Edward Souter Barnsley & Co, Birmingham, 1905. Salvaged from the damaged original, it has been transformed into a piece of striking contemporary jewellery that celebrates the craftsmanship of its past.
The pendant’s design showcases Barnsley’s signature repoussé work - scrolls, foliate motifs, and a domed finial that catch the light in subtle relief. Now suspended from a black leather strap, the piece balances antique delicacy with modern minimalism. The silver’s soft patina contrasts beautifully with the matte leather, giving it an edge that feels both historical and current.
Details
Origin: Birmingham, England
Maker: E.S. Barnsley & Co (Edward Souter Barnsley, active 1887–1920)
Hallmarks: Lion passant (sterling), Anchor (Birmingham), date letter “f” (1905)
Maker’s Mark: E.S.B.
Material: Solid sterling silver
Era: Edwardian (early 20th century)
Original form: Nail file handle from a sterling-silver vanity set
Comes with black leather strap (as pictured)
Why It’s Special
Where once it was part of a delicate dressing-table tool, this piece now stands alone - sculptural, tactile, and quietly powerful. The conversion retains every curve and flourish of Barnsley’s original design while introducing a new medium in leather, bridging two centuries of style.
Condition
As a reimagined antique, this pendant retains gentle surface variations consistent with age and use, enhancing its authenticity and story.
Once the ornate handle of a sterling-silver nail file, this pendant began life as part of an Edwardian manicure set crafted by Edward Souter Barnsley & Co, Birmingham, 1905. Salvaged from the damaged original, it has been transformed into a piece of striking contemporary jewellery that celebrates the craftsmanship of its past.
The pendant’s design showcases Barnsley’s signature repoussé work - scrolls, foliate motifs, and a domed finial that catch the light in subtle relief. Now suspended from a black leather strap, the piece balances antique delicacy with modern minimalism. The silver’s soft patina contrasts beautifully with the matte leather, giving it an edge that feels both historical and current.
Details
Origin: Birmingham, England
Maker: E.S. Barnsley & Co (Edward Souter Barnsley, active 1887–1920)
Hallmarks: Lion passant (sterling), Anchor (Birmingham), date letter “f” (1905)
Maker’s Mark: E.S.B.
Material: Solid sterling silver
Era: Edwardian (early 20th century)
Original form: Nail file handle from a sterling-silver vanity set
Comes with black leather strap (as pictured)
Why It’s Special
Where once it was part of a delicate dressing-table tool, this piece now stands alone - sculptural, tactile, and quietly powerful. The conversion retains every curve and flourish of Barnsley’s original design while introducing a new medium in leather, bridging two centuries of style.
Condition
As a reimagined antique, this pendant retains gentle surface variations consistent with age and use, enhancing its authenticity and story.
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