How to Identify Old Wax Seals

Examine the material from which the old wax seal is made. The wax seal, or stamp, is called the "matrix." It forms the "impression" that is the actual imprint on the wax. Old seal makers are made of natural materials, such as lead, bronze, gold, bone or ivory.

Measure the diameter of the wax seal matrix. Older wax seals, such as those that date from the early Middle Ages, are often less than one inch across. Later examples, like those used by royalty and nobility in the 18th and 19th centuries, can measure as many as 10 inches in diameter. In later periods, the size of the wax seal correlated directly with the importance of the individual to whom it belonged.

Look at the material that comprises the document seal or impression. Medieval wax seals are made of pure beeswax. Beeswax is a natural product of bees. The wax was heated and dripped onto the document. The seal was then impressed into the wax while it was still hot. Many 19th century wax seals are actually made almost entirely of shellac, the image being impressed into the wet material.

Note the color of the old wax seal. Prior to the 11th century, antique wax seals were uncolored. They possessed the natural, yellowish tinge of pure beeswax. Antique wax seals of later times were often dyed red, yellow, green or even black.

Examine the cord or ribbon that attaches the old wax seal to the document. Double-sided seals are always attached in this manner, as are many single-sided seals. Authentic old wax seals should hang from cords made of natural fiber, or from strips of parchment. Parchment is the prepared skin of a cow. On important documents, such as those signed and sealed by royalty, the antique seal may be encased in a small cloth or leather pouch, or a wooden case. The pouch or case further protects the old wax seal.