An elaborate design of seashells completely fills both sides of the locket. This design is deeply engraved and highly detailed. The locket appears to be encrusted with shells and as a result is very textured. Both front and back are completely full of design. Measuring 2" long including the bale and 1" wide, it is a nice medium size. Given the elaborate nature of the pattern, it has considerable presence.
Can easily be paired with a substantial chain/collar, as shown, or would be the star of the show if paired with a simpler chain. If paired with a simpler chain, it could easily be worn on a daily basis to add flair to any ensemble.
Excellent condition. Closes snugly and stays shut.
Chain and locket are sold separately.
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" wide
Condition:Excellent condition. Closes tightly and stays shut.
Web ID:MA20-414
Price:Free Shipping. We professionally package and can easily, safely ship any item, fully insured, within the US.
