So full of symbolism!
 
Rare Regency Acrostic Three Colour Gold Vinaigrette
The vinaigrette designed as a book, the front and back corners embellished with three dimensional applied leaves in green gold, the flower heads in yellow gold.
The background gold is a matte, rich antique deep gold that enhances the other gold colours applied ontop,
 
The large central flower is modelled as a pansy, it's petals acrostic gemstones -
Ruby
Emerald
Garnet
Amethyst
Ruby
Diamond (the centre)
 
In 19th Century England, lovers communicated their 'thoughts' of love by sending a bundle of herbs wrapped around a small bouquet of wild flowers; at its heart was a pansy. These small posies were a way of expressing love; the single pansy conveyed the message, 'I am thinking of you.'
In french 'Pense A Moi ' - means think of me. Remember me. Pense ..pansy
 
The spine of the book is decorated with four flower heads, and the letter i which probably has a meaning - but i'm not sure what!
 
The book opens to reveal the hinged Vinaigrette pierced lid, decorated with swirling leaves and a cornucopia (horn of plenty). There is a little cross on this lid that you use as a lever with your nail to lift up the partition.
A lady would apply perfume to some cloth and put them under the pierced lid to inhale. Some would also add dried herbs and flowers.
 
The book had a micro gold chain attached to the top, from which hang a rather charming rope twist ring and a tiny puffy heart.
 
Weighs - 12g
Measures - 29mm x 20mm x 6mm deep
Ring diameter - 13mm
English - early 19th Century
18 carat gold
Excellent antique condition - the chain has solder on one link, the tiny puffy heart has a couple of  tiny dings