Vintage Masonic Orb Ball Charm

A very unusual and highly collectible British Masonic Orb ball charm set in 9k yellow gold and silver. This highly unique piece opens to reveal beautifully hand engraved equally sized pyramids, there are 6 pyramids in total and 24 masonic symbols (4 per pyramid).
Each pyramid is held to the other by secure hinges, and folds back into a ball incredibly easily. This ball is secured by four arms and can be released by pulling the ball out. On top of the arms we see a jump ring making it easy to wear as a fob on a watch chain, a pendant or charm on a bracelet.
The Orb is composed of 9ct yellow gold and silver gilt. The ball in its closed position resembles a “ballot ball” in use during Masonic voting. When open the orb transforms into a cross.
The charm measures approximately 1.5 centimetres in length in its ball form and 4.3 centimetres in length when opened into its cross form. The weight of this item is approximately 7.7 grams.