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Kabyle Fibula. Is this a fake?

Posted by Nada on August 22, 2013 at 11:40am

The fibula looks old and well worn (see next photo for back) and it is missing its pin. There used to be a bail on top. But I'm wondering about the authenticity of this piece for two reasons: the metal is copper and not silver and instead of coral there is this strange wood chip like filling covered over with paint. This type of faux coral, I have seen in other pieces. Could anyone help me work out whether this is genuine, and estimate an age?

Comments

Chantal August 22, 2013 at 12:49pm

I think that this is quite genuine. The red material is some sort of bakelite often eroded on top. Used a lot for this type of jewel.
Nada August 22, 2013 at 2:05pm

Thank you Chantal for your comment. I don't think this is plastic or bakelite, rather some sort of fiberous material (looks like compressed wooden chips to me) covered in a thick coat of paint.
Alaa eddine SAGID August 22, 2013 at 10:34pm

very genuine.

if not bakelite then it could very well be celluloid material, often used to replace coral before bakelite was adopted
Nada August 23, 2013 at 8:17am

Thanks Alaa eddine for your comment,

I am not so sure. Would you have a look at this closer picture of the material showing through a crack made to the surface of the cabochon so that you can see what I mean. By the way it wasn't me who desecrated this piece. This is how I got it.!