Early 19th Century Oval Enamel Locket with a Basket and Foliate Design

This lovely antique enamel locket, circa 1860 to 1890s middle/late Victorian, features a hand-painted cobalt-blue lid with a stylized gold basket in the centre and a blue-and-green floral and scrolling leaf motif in the surround. The floral motifs feature a rose and pansies. The pansy, often featured in antique jewellery, represented the phrase, "Think of me" or to quote the French equivalent, "Pense a moi," so it was a pun on pansy/pense, symbolizing eternal love and remembrance. The locket was likely made as a loving tribute to a deceased loved one (considered mourning jewellery) and, at one time, may have contained a lock of hair so that a piece of them was always kept close to the wearer’s heart. It has survived for nearly 200 years and is in remarkable condition, given its age, though it does show some wear on the back. The regal coloured pendant is made more so by the rich gold bezel and tight rope design that defines the border. The locket opens from the left and displays a deep, high-polished interior. An oval bale is at the top and a 14K 16- to 18-inch curb link chain with lobster clasp is included.

• 14K yellow gold
• Gram weight is 18.3
• Pendant measures approximately 3.9 cm from bale to bottom and 2.6 cm across
• Chain measures approximately 16" to 18" in length
• Independently appraised value for insurance purposes: $6,850.00 (note: may not reflect selling price)

All items in the Estate Originals Collection are estate pieces created in years gone by. Although this item is in excellent condition, it could have some signs of its age and past enjoyment. The images shown are of the exact item you will receive.