Straight identification

[Aussieshaver]

Passed by a local antique store and spotted what appeared to be a very clean straight in a cabinet with a missmatched box.

It was about a 4/8 and etched on the blade were the letters 'GEM' and black plastic(?) scales. No other markings on the razor.
With a little bit of research I have come up with two potential candidates for what it might be:
1. "Tonsorial Gem" straight made in Germany for FA Clauberg of New York
2. Sheffield made Thomas Turner & Co "Suffolk Gem"
3. Something else

I didnt buy it but im thinking about going back to get it. Does anybody know what it might be?

 

[forum9]

Most English Sheffield or German Solingen razors have a makers stamp near the pivot pin and so I think the blade you have found is not either of the makes you suggest.

If it is 4/8" you should look carefully to make sure it isn’t a worn out 5/8”.

A true 4/8” and a true 5/8” will both give a great shave, but a 5/8” that has worn down to 4/8” is usually past it sell by date.

The precise measure is from the bevel on the spine to the edge. Most new razors actually measure about 2mm oversize when you take into account the dome of the spine of the blade.

If the spine bevel is wide...say 2mm, the blade is probably a 5/8” razor that has been honed down a lot. If the spine bevel is 1mm wide, the blade is a 4/8” razor.

The point about hone ware is the flex of the blade lessens as the blade gets worn down and it gives a less comfortable shave.

 

[conteins]

wow, forum9 a valuable post overall. i learned more descriptive vocabulary and discriminating characteristics. thanks!

 

[forum9]

Sorry,

If I could draw a simple diagram it would save a thousand words and my brain.

 

[Noswad]

wow, forum9 a valuable post overall. i learned more descriptive vocabulary and discriminating characteristics. thanks!

Good job on the description, forum9. I once took a class where I had to write a paper on how to change a tire. Sounds easier than it is.