Vintage Alexandrite Opaline Box — Pale Lavender Glass with Gold Brass Mounts

A gorgeous and collectible vintage Alexandrite opaline box in the classic Italian style, crafted from luminous pale lavender opaline glass with polished gold-tone brass mounts. Alexandrite opaline is prized for its enchanting colour-shift quality — the glass appears a soft, dreamy lilac in cool light and takes on warmer, more rose-tinged tones in incandescent light, a phenomenon caused by the rare earth elements used in its production. The body and lid are formed from thick, smooth opaline glass with gently rounded edges, and the lid is framed in a crisp rectangular brass surround that reflects light beautifully. The hinge mechanism is seamless and the lid opens and closes with a satisfying, gentle resistance.

Boxes of this type were produced primarily in Murano and across Italy from the mid-20th century onward, and the finest examples are now eagerly collected. The combination of Alexandrite opaline glass with polished brass mounts represents the top tier of the form — the glass is rarer and more expensive to produce than standard white or colored opaline, and the quality of the brass hardware on this example is exceptional. It sits beautifully on a vanity, dressing table, or writing desk, equally useful for jewelry, keepsakes, or decorative display on its own.

Condition is perfect — no chips, cracks, scratches, or losses to the glass, and the brass retains its bright polish. This is a museum-quality example ready to be enjoyed or given as a cherished gift.

Dimensions: 4.25" long × 2.5" wide × 2" tall.