Antique Hardstone Mounted Silver Button Hook - Very Unusual

This is a rare and delightful silver handled large button hook, mounted with five teardrop hard-stones. It was likely once part of a much bigger set, probably a full ladies travelling case set, as it only has the year mark and Lion Passant, signifying the silver is to Sterling Silver [925 parts per thousand] British standard. The date letter [d] signifies it was either assayed in Birmingham in 1903 or alternatively London 1899. Alas, the lack of a makers mark or the assay office location mark does not enable us to be exact. However, for the avid button hook collector this is a beautiful and interesting example.