A love held in silver — dated, engraved, and quietly enduring since 1875.
This beautifully detailed Victorian sterling silver locket carries a deeply personal history, engraved to the front with the original owner’s monogram and the date 10th August 1875 — a moment once significant, now gently preserved in silver.
The inscription rests within a shield-shaped cartouche, surrounded by finely hand-engraved scrolling florals. Around this, a halo of embossed triangular motifs creates a striking frame, echoed again along the sides with delicate geometric detailing — all still crisp and well defined.
The reverse is equally decorative, engraved with ivy — a motif long associated with fidelity and enduring attachment. Equally beautiful on both sides, the locket may be worn either way, offering the sense of two pieces in one.
A substantial oval D-shaped bale completes the piece, practical in scale and well suited to a variety of chains.
The locket opens from the side to reveal two compartments for photographs or keepsakes. One retains a traditional picture ring and a Perspex photo cover, while the other offers a slightly deeper, raised compartment with an integrated Perspex cover — ideal for holding thicker mementoes such as hairwork.
A thoughtful and well-preserved example, both decorative and quietly sentimental, and still ready to carry new memories nearly 150 years on.
DETAILS:
METAL: Sterling silver (unmarked, acid tested and confirmed)
SIZE: 5.5cm (2-1/2") tall, measured to include bail, 3cm (1-1/4") wide, 9mm deep
DATE: Victorian, circa 1870
WEIGHT: 15 grams
CONDITION: Excellent antique condition. No dents or dings. Closes securely with a satisfying click. Any dark areas visible are reflections. NOTE: Chain not included.
At Mercy Madge, we specialise in quality antique and vintage jewellery, carefully sourced throughout Great Britain. Every piece is professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring it is ready to wear, enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free Worldwide Shipping
We are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases.
* Returns Policy
If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may return your item for a refund. Please contact us within 3 days of receiving your order and return the item within 7 days.
* Gemstone Testing & Measurements
All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.
* Photography & Scale
Our photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show every fine detail. As a result, minor imperfections may appear more pronounced in images than they do to the naked eye. Close-up photography can also make pieces appear larger on screen, so we recommend referring carefully to the written description for precise dimensions.
* Gifting
Purchasing as a gift? Your jewellery will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note that unless otherwise stated, any antique boxes shown in photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.
At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear and enjoy or give as a gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free worldwide shipping on all purchases.
* Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days.
* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
* Buying a gift? – Your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase.
Check out our Etsy reviews at https://mercymadge.etsy.com