A beautiful antique Victorian rolled gold locket by the highly regarded Birmingham jeweller Thomas Hopwood, a maker celebrated for producing exceptionally well-crafted rolled gold jewellery during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. His pieces remain especially sought after today for their quality workmanship, elegant designs and remarkably durable gold finish.
Crafted in a pleasing oblong form with softly rounded corners, this charming little Victorian locket has a rich, warm golden colour that gives it wonderful period character. The front is beautifully hand engraved with delicate scrolling acanthus and ivy leaves, creating an elegant feminine design full of detail. The reverse is equally special, bearing the original owner's ornate "EFL" monogram engraved in flowing Victorian script—a wonderful reminder that this little treasure once belonged to someone whose story has been carried through more than a century.
Opening from the side, the locket reveals a generously deep compartment designed to hold a cherished photograph or lock of hair. As an especially lovely surviving feature, it still retains its original paper liner, removable photograph frame and domed glass, allowing the next owner to preserve their own keepsake within. The slightly domed glass provides a gentle magnifying effect, beautifully enhancing the image placed beneath it.
Perfectly proportioned as a dainty everyday pendant, we have paired the locket with a new Italian 14K gold filled chain, making it ready to wear straight from the box or give as a thoughtful gift.
Victorian rolled gold—often referred to today as gold filled—was considered a premium jewellery material during the nineteenth century. Rather than being simply plated, it was produced by mechanically bonding a substantial layer of gold to a base metal core, resulting in jewellery prized for its rich appearance and excellent longevity while remaining more affordable than solid gold.
A wonderfully personal Victorian keepsake, ready to begin its next chapter and carry someone else's treasured memories.
DETAILS
METAL: Rolled gold / gold filled, professionally tested
SIZE: Locket measures 2.3cm (5/8 inch) tall, excluding jump ring, 1.5cm (5/8 inch) wide, 5.6mm deep. Chain measures 46cm (18 inches)
WEIGHT: 4.2 grams total
MARKS: Reverse stamped with the stylised T+H maker's mark for Thomas Hopwood. Chain stamped 1/20 14K GF and Italy on the clasp and tag.
DATE: Victorian, circa 1880
CONDITION: In very good antique condition with light surface wear commensurate with age. The locket closes securely with a satisfying click and retains its original paper liner, photograph frame and domed glass. Any darker areas visible in the photographs are reflections rather than flaws.
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At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished, ensuring they are ready to wear and enjoy, or present as a thoughtful gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free Worldwide Shipping
We are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases. For our US and EU customers, all applicable tariffs and import charges are included in the purchase price, so no additional duties or fees will be payable on delivery.
* 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.
