Antique 14k Victorian Mourning Locket/Book Chain

This locket may be the MVP of this collection...

I have yet to find one similar, making this piece all the more unique! 

The chain features beautifully crafted mesh style links, with ornate floral decorative link at both ends of the box clasp, and at the top and bottom of the extender for the locket.

The locket itself has an intricately carved pattern on it's face outline in black enamel, and a rose in the center, outline in a light blue enamel.

I have styled this chain and locket with one or two very thin chains layered atop to test out a maximalist look -- however, it is a piece that needs no accompaniment as it's extraordinary and distinctive craftsmanship are apparent on any wearer!

Victorian mourning lockets became used as popular sentimental jewelry pieces, after Queen Victoria wore a locket containing hair and a photo of Prince Albert after his death in 1861. Her public display of grief and the symbolism of carrying a piece of lost loved one, popularized the wearing of mourning jewelry pieces. Early designs of mourning symbols featured somber motifs like skulls and coffins, but these evolved into softer motifs like angels, flowers, and weeping willows to name a few. 

Details:

*Circa 1870, box clasp

☆ material: 14k gold & enamel (on locket face)
☆ weight: 42.3 g/27.19 dwt
☆ length: chain is 16.5" with 25. mm/2.5 cm drop to clasp, locket is 35 mm/3.5 cm
☆ width: chain is 5 mm/0.5 cm, locket is 30 mm/3 cm wide
☆ hallmarks: N/A, acid tested 14k
☆ maker's mark: N/A

Price: $4,275.00 USD

*Payment Plan Eligible*