Object of the Day: A Citrine Stickpin

Gentleman could express some flare and creativity with their choice of stickpins—often coordinating the pin with the color of their cravat and waistcoat. Simpler pins in gold and less formal gems were used for business and during the day while diamond stickpins were reserved for elegant affairs and evening entertainment.


This stickpin of British standard 15 karat gold features a large, faceted citrine. The citrine is a deep mandarin color which reflects an array of golden light. A very substantial pin, this piece dates to 1860-1870 when a gentleman’s pin was fashionably large.

Though stickpins gave way to tie clips, and then, sadly, to nothing at all, I’d love to see designers reintroduce the stickpin into everyday fashion. Perhaps one day when cravats and ascots come back into vogue, we’ll once again be treated to a little extra sparkle.