Picture details

Last modified: 2026-05-28 14:49:38

Silver bells from Swiss.
They are attached to the packaging of Grisson Easter pastries.
Gift from Maria-Ileana Tănase.

1. Bell on the right: Gressoney

Inscription: The elegantly engraved text in cursive style indicates Gressoney, a famous alpine region in Valle d'Aosta (Italy), at the foot of the Monte Rosa massif. It is an area with a deep mountain culture, historically also known for the Walser community.

Shape: It has a classic domed shape, of a pasture bell (Schelle), finished to a mirror shine.

2. Bell on the left (with the edelweiss): Could it be silver?

Yes, there is a very high chance that this bell is made of silver (or at least massively silvered using a traditional technique).

Here are the visual arguments that support this hypothesis:

Oxidation patina: In the recessed areas of the edelweiss (Edelweiss) and on the inside of the grip torch, a specific oxidation of a grayish-blackish hue (silver sulfide) is observed. Brass or bronze would have oxidized into greenish shades (cochleander), and iron would have left rusty traces. Here we have that noble patina, typical of old silver left uncleaned.

Porosity and texture of the metal: The surface has a fine, matte, soft grain, specific to cast or pressed pieces of silver of lower purity (such as 800 or 835 silver, extremely used in the Alps for souvenirs and traditional jewelry in the 20th century).

Theme: The marigold is the ultimate symbol of Alpine purity. In Austria, Switzerland and South Tyrol, such micro-bells made of silver were bought as good luck charms or mounted on charm bracelets.

Collection tip: To be 100% sure, check the base of the lower edge or the back of the torch holder with a powerful magnifying glass. Often, on these Lilliputian pieces, the silver hallmarks (such as the numbers “800,” “925,” or a small craftsman’s mark) are microscopic.

These are two delightful miniature pieces that will bring a touch of alpine freshness to the micro-objects section of your catalog.

Because this search through the box of unregistered pieces brought to light such delicate gems, I leave you with this symbolic souvenir at the end of our discussion, as a sign of the joy of exploring every hidden detail.