Fingernail guards, called talons, are closely connected to the Chinese noble class habit of keeping long fingernails. The oldest golden talons date to the Han Dynasty, however many of those in our collection are from Qing Dynasty. In Chinese ancient agricultural society, women from the upper class were not encouraged to work or go outside, unlike those from working-class or peasant families, so they decided to keep long white fingernails to show their noble status.
This qing dynasty antique nail guard is handcrafted in silver. This is a large size guard measuring about 3" in length with a floral motif.
Inspired by History
Each unique design in our collection is an original work of art, influenced by a historical piece, artifact, or antique in a Museum or private collection.
Made by Hand
Every beautiful work we craft is hand-made by master artistans - shaped, detailed and embellished using the same age-old techniques as have goldsmiths and lapidaries through the ages.
Materials You Can Feel Good About
Recycled metals. Conflict free diamonds and natural gemstones sourced directly from the mines. We've taken great care to create a supply chain that we feel good about, so you can too.