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This is a Sensational Antique locket I liken to a “Brag Book” –
it is capable of holding 4 pictures of loved ones! The front features a
stunning symmetrical design filled with black enamel. The enamelling technique
is referred to as t’aille d’epargne or enamel
tracery. It is an enamel technique whereby an etched design is filled with
powdered enamel then fired in a kiln. The design rests upon a stippled
background and is framed by a plain, smooth border followed by acanthus foliate
carvings.
The other side is engraved with an intricate floral design with
a small cartouche at the centre perfect for initialling. Each side has the same
scrolling design as a border. This side features the same frames as per the
front. There are further carvings on the central “leaf” of the locket forming a
“thick” book.
With two bead-tabs on the front and back covers, it opens just
like book with a hinged section that opens from the centre. There are 4 windows
in total. The hinges and claps are in perfect working order & it clicks
shut. There is an ample jump ring to add a chain of your choice to.
It has the silky smooth feel usually only associated with solid
carat gold and expected of quality antique/vintage jewellery. It has a soft,
Antique rose/pink and yellow blended gold hue.
HISTORY &
HALLMARKS
Era: Victorian c1860-70s
Trademark: none
Maker: unknown
Material: Gold Filled – unmarked
Gold purity: outer surface tested positive for 12 carat gold
MEASURES
Height: 2.6cm or 1” without the bail and fixed ring
Width: 2.1cm
Thickness: 1.2cm – almost 1/2”!
Weight: a heavy 15.7
grams
OVERALL
Better-than-Excellent
Antique condition! There is a smallish dent to the bottom left corner
of the back cover and another about half way up within the design – they do not
detract as they are not obvious and probably could be rectified by a competent
jeweller. All the original glass bezels are in situ – all but one has the original
metal housing and is held in place with tape joining it back-to-back to its
neighbour. To reach this age with all the enamel intact and no wear to the gold
finish and no repairs is just amazing. It is very rare not to be missed. The
photos can never do justice to this lovely old jewellery and you will be thrilled
with this purchase. What a beauty!
Value Point: Original and intact complete condition
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