A fine quality heart shaped antique locket dating to circa 1890 — a true Victorian era piece. Substantially made in rolled rose gold with a rich warm rosy hue, one side of the locket is engraved with ornate acanthus leaf flourishes while the reverse is decorated with pansy flowers beside a smooth reserve intended for a monogram or personal engraving.
A wonderfully versatile piece, the locket may be worn with either side facing to vary the look. It opens from the side to reveal the original paper liners, photo frames and clear protective photo covers still intact inside.
Victorian rolled gold — also known as gold filled — was considered a premium material of the period and was widely used for high quality jewellery intended to withstand everyday wear. With a substantial layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base metal core, antique rolled gold jewellery has the rich colour, feel and durability of solid gold, but at a more accessible price point. Indeed, before testing, we initially believed this piece may well have been solid gold.
A beautiful traditional antique locket and classic Victorian love token, the pansy motif carries the sentimental meaning “think of me” in the Victorian language of flowers. We have added a complimentary modern rose gold vermeil (gold plated sterling silver) mini belcher chain for immediate wear. The chain is a slightly brighter rose gold tone than the antique locket, though the difference is subtle when worn.
Romantic and timeless, this beautifully engraved heart locket is ready to hold treasured photographs, a lock of hair or a secret love note close to the heart. Equally lovely worn alone or layered with other antique chains, it is a piece rich in both sentiment and history.
DETAILS:
METAL: tests as rolled gold
MEASUREMENTS: locket 2.5cm (1 inch) high, 2.3cm (7/8 inch) wide, 7mm deep. Chain 41cm (16 inches)
WEIGHT: locket 4.2 grams (6.9 grams total with chain)
HALLMARKS: locket unmarked, chain stamped ‘925’ for sterling silver and ‘GP’ for gold plated
DATE: Victorian, circa 1890
CONDITION: in very good antique condition with light wear commensurate with age. Closes securely with a satisfying click. Please note any dark spots are reflections.
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