B.T.C. Montreal telephone line insulator deep purple

This is a rare, antique insulator, originally used by the Bell Telephone Company of Canada. The oldest of these have Montreal stamped on them (the newer ones have Canada). The purple color is a natural occurrence from decades of sun exposure, a process known as sun-colored amethyst (SCA). It’s a fascinating and beautiful piece of history. Please note that there are several chips along the bottom and upper rims, and some tiny flea bites here and there, but no cracks. The large chip visible above the words is actually a manufacturer’s flaw and is internal only.