Circa 1850, absolutely beautiful all original antique English sterling silver locket bursting with Victorian sentiment and romantic symbolism.
One of the largest and most detailed lockets we have ever had the pleasure in offering, the front is heavily chased and engraved in an intricate fern pattern. An applied belt and buckle motif takes center stage giving the locket dimension and even more presence.
To the Victorians ferns symbolised humility and sincerity, the belt and buckle safety and protection and these romantic large sized silver lockets were often gifted to fiances and brides and treasured for life.
Fern collecting and study actually became a female near obsession in the mid 1800's resulting in a widespread shortage of the plants in the British Isles and leading to the medical term "Pteridomania" or fern mania! Not surprisingly jewelry decorated with ferns became very fashionable.
The locket is quite deep and it opens to reveal the original removable silver photo ring and there is plenty of room inside for other sentimental keepsakes. The top is adorned with an engraved, softly contoured large teardrop bail which will accommodate thick chains, cords or ribbons. A truly exquisite Victorian locket necklace bound to bring endless joy to its new owner!
MATERIALS: Sterling silver. tested
ERA: Victorian, early Aesthetic, circa 1850
MEASUREMENTS: 2-3/4" long x 1-3/4" wide (70x45mm), approx. 17mm deep.
WEIGHT: 27 grams
HALLMARKS: None.
CONDITION: Excellent condition with minor signs of surface wear to be expected from a piece of jewelry this age. The locket is completely free of damage or dents. It closes securely with a satisfying snap and stays firmly closed . The hinge is in perfect working order with no signs of wear or damage.