Lovely large size flat English sterling silver locket with typical Victorian motif. Measuring 2.25" long including bale and 1.25" wide, this is not overwhelmingly large but of nice size. With its flat surface and elaborate detail, it can be nicely paired with a simple chain or a more detailed one. The size lends itself to either being worn on a short or a long chain.
The mixture of leaves, flowers, and swirls creates a soothing but decorative landscape. Engraved decorationg is not engraved overly deeply to exude a bold look but yet it is certainly discernible. Back is plain.
Excellent condition. Closes snugly and stays shut..
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:2.25" long x 1.25" wide
Condition:Excellent condition. Closes tightly and stays shut.
Web ID:MA20-445
Price:Free Shipping. We professionally package and can easily, safely ship any item, fully insured, within the US.
