Octagram : Australian Antique Turquoise Starburst Locket in 15ct Gold

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A stunning and gloriously unusual shield shaped locket in 15ct gold made by early Australian jeweller Harry Young of Sydney. It features and eight pointed star, known as an octagram, set with nine turquoise cabochon gemstones.

Octagrams are symbols found in ancient cultures all over the world, for instance, in Native American cultures the eight pointed star is the Star Knowledge or the hope symbol, in Judeo-Christian mythology the octagram signifies beginnings, salvation, resurrection and super-abundance. It is also the traditional compass mark, which was likely the inspiration for this jewel.

Manufacture:
Made in 15ct gold throughout, this substantial jewel is in absolutely wonderful condition. Formed in the shape of a shield it is hinged on the left to open like a book, with space for two photographs inside. Both of the golden frames are present. The locket opens smoothly and closes securely.

The natural turquoise cabochons are bead set inside the starburst symbol. There is some slight colour variation between the stones as is to be expected with antique turquoise jewels.

A decorative bail is attached to the gold bar that runs across the locket, with a jump ring attached allowing it to be hung from a chain.

This locket can be accurately dated to the early 20th Century by the hallmarks on the reverse. Harry Young began trading from his retail premesis on George Street in Sydney in 1903. He was an “energetic member” of the Retail Jewellers Association of New South Wales and a subscriber to the Sydney Hallmark Co. of 1916. As the NSW hallmarks are absent from this piece we can accurately date it to between 1903-1916. Hallmarked to the reverse with the marks Harry Young and 15ct.

Measures 45mm including the bail and jump ring, 34mm without x 25mm x 9.38mm
Weighs 16.1 grams

Condition:
In excellent antique condition with minor wear commensurate with age and use. An ideal piece for the collector of early Australian jewellery. Ready for immediate wear.

Please note this listing is for the locket only.

Description

A stunning and gloriously unusual shield shaped locket in 15ct gold made by early Australian jeweller Harry Young of Sydney. This locket can be accurately dated to between 1903 – 1916 by the hallmarks on the reverse.

The hinged locket opens like a book to reveal two spaces for photographs inside. Both of the golden frames are present. The locket closes securely.

Measures 45mm including the bail and jump ring, 34mm without x 25mm x 9.38mm
Weighs 16.1 grams

In excellent antique condition.