French 18ct Gold Carved Tiger's Eye Dog's Head of a Greyhound and Natural Pearl Tie Pin

French 18ct Gold Carved Tiger's Eye Dog's Head of a Greyhound and Natural Pearl Tie PinA remarkable and exceptionally rare French tie pin, finely carved as the head of a greyhound or whippet in richly banded tigers eye, mounted in 18ct gold and finished with a suspended natural pearl. Animal form stick pins of this quality were luxury objects even in their own time; examples combining hardstone carving, gold, and pearl are now seldom encountered. The 19th century saw a particular fascination with greyhounds and whippets across France

A remarkable and exceptionally rare French tie pin, finely carved as the head of a greyhound or whippet in richly banded tiger’s eye, mounted in 18ct gold and finished with a suspended natural pearl. Animal-form stick pins of this quality were luxury objects even in their own time; examples combining hardstone carving, gold, and pearl are now seldom encountered.

The 19th century saw a particular fascination with greyhounds and whippets across France and Britain. Celebrated for their speed, elegance, and aristocratic associations, these hounds appeared frequently in painting, sculpture, and jewellery, often symbolising loyalty, refinement, and quiet strength. Their lean, alert profiles lent themselves perfectly to carved forms such as this, where expression and character are paramount.

The dog’s head is carved from tiger’s eye, a natural quartz distinguished by its silky lustre and golden-brown chatoyancy. Valued in the 19th century both for its striking appearance and its perceived protective qualities, tiger’s eye was believed to guard the wearer and encourage confidence, making it a particularly fitting material for a talismanic jewel. The carving here is highly accomplished, capturing the sensitivity and intelligence of the breed.

Suspended below, a natural pearl adds softness and movement, its gentle glow contrasting beautifully with the warmth of the tiger’s eye and gold. Pearl, the June birthstone, has long been associated with loyalty, wisdom, and calm, attributes that sit naturally alongside the symbolism of the hound.

A jewel of real rarity and character, combining sculptural carving, symbolic materials, and 19th-century animal iconography. It is equally compelling to the collector of stick pins or the lover of distinctive antique jewellery.

Every tie pin from Parkin & Gerrish is supplied with a secure stopper.