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Masonic balls — also known as Masonic globes, puzzle balls, or Masonic orbs — are intricate spherical pendants that unfold into a cross shape engraved with Masonic symbols such as the square and compasses, all-seeing eye, or other esoteric emblems. These were often worn as watch fobs or pendants by Freemasons and were popular from the late 19th to early 20th centuries”.

A fascinating piece of craftsmanship and symbolism, this antique Edwardian-to-Art Deco era Masonic orb by John Henry Wynn is a true collector’s treasure. 

Crafted from 9-carat yellow gold and silver, this intricate pendant — also known as a Masonic globe or puzzle ball — unfolds from a perfect sphere into a beautifully detailed cross engraved with traditional Masonic emblems, including the square and compass, the all-seeing eye, and other esoteric emblems.

This particular example is especially large and weighty, measuring 1.8 cm across when closed and expanding to an impressive 5.3 cm by 3.3 cm when opened. It weighs a very substantial 14.6 grams, giving it a reassuringly solid feel in hand.

 Inside, the pyramids gleam with a gold-gilt wash, highlighting the fine engraved details with warmth and contrast.

Fully stamped 9CT and SIL, and bearing the maker’s mark JHW for John Henry Wynn, this orb is in particularly fine condition for its age. It can be worn on your favourite chain or paired with an antique watch chain for a truly authentic look.

A remarkable piece of Masonic history, this orb combines symbolism, artistry, and elegance — a captivating reminder of craftsmanship from a bygone era.

STONES
None

MEASUREMENTS
Closed - 1.8cm round
Open - 5.3cm x 3.3cm

WEIGHT
14.68 Grams

MARKS
‘Made In England’ - 9ct & Sil - ‘JHW’ 

ERA
Edwardian - Art Deco era

CONDITION
Excellent antique/vintage condition.  This is an exceptional and heavy example with no wear, damage or issues.  Gold is bright and lustrous, opens and closes perfectly, and gilt over silver symbols to the interior are also in exceptional condition.  Original top ring is thick and strong.  NO issues to note.  Gorgeous!

HISTORY OF JOHN HENRY WYNN

John Henry Wynn was a distinguished jeweller and goldsmith in Birmingham, England, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was renowned for his exquisite Masonic jewellery—including ornate gold and silver orb pendants that unfolded to reveal engraved symbols, ballot balls, rings such as snakehead designs with garnets, and discreet fobs for Freemasons.  His range also included a diverse range of finely crafted gold and silver items like expanding watch bracelets, patent brooches, sterling silver-capped perfume bottles, inkwells, and 9ct gold pieces.

He established his business around 1895–1899 on Soho Hill, Birmingham, before relocating to the safer environs of 42–46 Hylton Street in the Jewellery Quarter due to repeated burglary attempts at the vulnerable glass-roofed original site.  By the mid-20th century, J.H. Wynn Ltd operated from 186 Soho Hill (as noted in 1968 telephone directories), with the company continuing under his name until about 1938, transitioning to J.H. Wynn Ltd, and maintaining an active factory in the Jewellery Quarter until around 1996.

Wynn's works typically bore the maker's mark "JHW" in a rectangular or cameo punch, often accompanied by "Made in England" and hallmarks from Birmingham or Chester assays, and his intricately symbolic Masonic pieces remain highly collectible today for their superior craftsmanship and historical significance.