Description
Victorian, circa 1880 – 1900, covered in coded sentimental symbols of ivy and forget-me-not flowers picked out in silver and rose gold on the yellow gold frame.
The locket glass has been replaced with brand new “mineral glass” and is in brand new condition with no chips or scratches.
The locket features a decorative lace-like border studded with shell-based seed pearls. Shell-based pearls are commonly found in antique jewellery before the cultured pearl process was invented in the 1920’s. Natural pearls were not always available to jewellers in the early Australian colonies and this was one of their clever work-arounds. They are made of ground mother of pearl, and have the advantage of not discolouring over time. The locket is in excellent condition – any dark spots are tarnish from age, not solder or glue.
At the reverse a simple frame friction-fits inside the locket which allows photographs or other keepsakes to be replaced. This frame can be very frustrating to pop back in again unless you have nimble fingers and a light touch – I’d be happy to organise for your keepsakes to be placed inside.
Hallmarked 9ct with makers mark G&W to the side of the locket. Most likely Australian in origin.