Tuesday, 26th October 2004 (3601 views)

Although gold jewellery is a popular treat amongst the wealthy and often used as a symbol of status, a new item is proving just as popular and rarer - the gold box.

Produced for personal pleasure, the gold boxes reached their peak in the 18th century and are popular since they were not specifically created for showing off, according to the Star Online.

For a chance to view one of the most extensive collections, the Gilbert Collection at Somerset House in London features 220 of the gold boxes and is the most valuable collection and biggest private hoards by one man.

Gold boxes were considered worthy enough to be used for royal exchanges and as official gifts for royal servants, ambassadors and heads of foreign missions.

The Charlottenberg Palace in Berlin also houses similar gold boxes, with some from a famous collection produced for Frederick the Great of Prussia.

 

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