Emeries are one of the most sought after collectibles in the world of sewing collectibles. The most common shapes are strawberries but they can also be found as other fruits, animals and acorns. True emeries are stuffed with--Emery!--tiny steel filings of a sand like texture.
Sterling capped emeries are particularly desirable like the acorn above which is constructed of chamois.
The fabrics can be wool, silk, velvet and man made materials with silk being more desirable-it is often found in poor shredded condition. Strawberries often are embellished with beads or tiny threads to represent seeds. In picture three is shown a wax strawberry-not a true emery but a waxer for making thread extra strong.
The last three pictures (carrots, ladybugs, mice) are contemporary emeries made by Deborah Hartwick http://www.heartwellsdesigns.com/, so sweet!
(pictures 3 and 4 from Green Valley and Bonhams Auction Houses)
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