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Ornately Adorned Floral Two-Sided Medium Size Antique English Silver Locket

Description:

Incredibly engraved with mutiple ovals of varying designs.  Central floral design is outlined with zigzag and pleated oval rings on one side. The opposite side has similar outer rings with the center medallion having a few leaves at the top of the medallion.  The bottom portion of this center medallion is plain and could even be monogrammed, if desired.  Wonderful condition.  Nice solid bale.  

Slightly bulbous shape. 

Can be paired with a simple chain or even a highly engraved one, depending on desired effect.  Feel free to contact us if you would like assistance in finding just the right combination. 

Excellent condition.  Closes snugly and stays shut. No major dents or dings.  Back is plain with no decoration.

The ideology in Victorian times was that more was better. Thus, ladies would be adorned with several lockets and bracelets at one time which is why the bracelets were designed with flat sides to make it easier for them to stack and chains will be found in all lengths. This line of thinking better explains the elaborate details of the lockets, earrings, and chains.  Some think of this time as being simpler, but it really was a time of lavishness.  The silver jewelry was often their traveling jewelry while they would save their jewels for galas and gatherings. 

These pieces were not mass produced; thus, each piece is truly a work of art.  They were not made for export to the United States which makes their availability limited. Often one will see pictures of Queen Victoria wearing a locket or another bold piece of jewelry.  This was deliberate as she wanted to promote the industry.  She was so successful that they had to open an assay office in Birmingham.  Assay offices were where the piece was impressed with a stamp indicating type of metal, year of production, and origin of production.  This was certifying the piece by the Crown…somewhat similar to notarizing something today.  Prior to the opening of the Birmingham assay office, the jewelry makers had to send all their wares to London for testing.  Once tested, the piece would then be marked and could be sold for silver. There are books to help you identify each of these assay marks.  The majority of the pieces sold were not marked as there was not a safe means to transport the items to and from the assay offices. 

Dimensions:

2" long x 1.25" wide

Condition:

Excellent condition. Closes tight and stays shut. No major dents or dings.

Web ID:

MA20-443

Price:
$245


Shipping:

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