HISTORY

In the early 1800s hair began to be used for the actual making of jewellery. The watch chain was the most popular piece as a lady could be ensured she was in “his” thoughts many times a day, a very romantic notion! Hair work jewellery was at the height of its popularity in the 1850s when Victorian women wore jewellery as both a decoration & an outward expression of their innermost feelings. For years it was popular to own a lock of a loved one’s hair, usually in a compartment at the back of a brooch, locket, ring, or even watch fob. Hair work was just as popular as crocheting at the time. They would produce these pieces in their drawing rooms then send it to the jeweller for fittings to be attached.  Hair work jewellery took the form of brooches, bracelets, necklaces & chains and there were many different weaves used.The history of this style of jewellery is just amazing and its for this reason it is so collectible!

DESCRIPTION

Superb period piece featuring scallop capped fittings with a chased design including swivel, toggle or t-bar and fitting studded with paste cabouchons from which a fabulous locket is attached. Locket features engraved floral/foliate design studded with paste "Rubies & Diamonds". The back is engraved with the monogram AM and inside contains the original frame and insert.

Colour: Soft rose gold hued fittings and locket

Construction: Fittings are 10 carat Gold Shell - stamped 1/10 (and tested)

Sizing: length - 30.5cm end-to-end, locket 2.3cm in diameter, weight - 20.5 grams

Condition: Near Mint - the BEST you'll see. No breaks, fraying, repairs or damage of any type. For the most fastidious collector!