Stanhope Lens Jewelry And Souvenirs

Other common themes for Stanhope lenses are royalty images, especially Queen Victoria, political figures, and religious icons. Stanhope lenses can be found in a wide variety of collectibles ranging from sewing accessories, to writing instruments, to XXXX. Jewelry was a popular theme for Stanhope manufacturers in the 19th and 20th century. Tiny peep photos that one could wear on a neck chain or bracelet entertained people of the era. There were cross pendants and rosaries that held a pinhead sized picture of The Lord's Prayer, or Ten Commandments.

Churches were also a popular bracelet charm Stanhope piece. At the other extreme were naughty photos of buxom babes tucked inside a pair of binoculars, or a still or movie camera. And in between were royal crown souvenirs with photos of England's Queen, and televisions with Hollywood actors and actresses. Travelers loved to pick up souvenir bracelet charms in their travels and peek at the tiny pictures inside to remember their trips. The variety was as vast as the imagination.

Silver Stanhope jewelry was more commonly manufactured than gold but other media was also used. Ivory, brass, bone, and celluloid jewelry were also made. Most Stanhopes were very inexpensive and cheaply made so there are few surviving early pieces. These were a dime a dozen in the early days and people didn't think much about taking care of them.

Stanhope jewelry is quite fragile and precautions should be taken with a collection. Never put the piece in water or jewelry cleaner. The photo will be ruined forever. Do not store them in a plastic bag as it can contain moisture from the air. Also don't expose the jewelry to high heat as the photo will bubble or become separated from the glue backing. Stanhopes should be stored in a ventilated container at room temperatures. There are lots of "Stanhopeless" jewelry items on the market because of uneducated owners, so when buying on-line always ask if the photo is intact.

There are several websites with Stanhope collecting information. A very good one is Stanhopes. The authors are residents of England and have done extensive research on Stanhope souvenirs. They also offer for sale a reference book and have a twice-yearly magazine for those who want to learn more about these treasures of the past.