Attentive readers already know that August’s birthstone is the Sardonyx, an extremely fine volcanic crystalline quartz—which presents as irregular bands of (colored) “sard” and (white) “onyx.” The stone is usually found in shades of brown, red or yellow. The sardonyx of the Edwardian Scottish pillbox, shown above, was likely dyed blue before it was cut, a common practice in the gemstone business. Made around 1910, the pillbox is perfect for just that purpose or to hold other small, precious possessions: rings, cufflinks, baby’s teeth. Please come into the shop to see the box in-person or call us for further information.
See new merchandise first! Follow us on Instagram: “leodesignhandsomegifts”