Antique Georgian locket pendant and gold chain. 15ct gold, emeralds, ruby and diamond. Made in England, early 19th century.
Measurements:
Weight is 18.3 grams. Chain is approximately 16 1/2 inches (42cm) long.
Description :
Stunningly beautiful locket pendant in the form of a padlock or basket. Rope twist gold 'handle, realistically formed. Both front and back with exquisite repousse gold design of flowers, fruit and foliage. Roses, squash, melons and a host of other flora, beautifully depicted in fine detail. The front join of handle is set with a pair of collet set emeralds and the 'lock' of the basket or padlock in the form of a tiny diamond and ruby. The corresponding areas to the emeralds at the back are an acorn and a poppy flower. Details are just wonderful. Locket with sturdy and secure hinge on the right and little thumb piece to facilitate opening on the left. Within is a glass-covered compartment with an inset of woven hair.
Opens with a clip-in clasp - beautifully made so that it can barely be seen. This allows the pendant to be suspended from the chain. The chain is another wonderful feat of Georgian workmanship. Alternating sections of wonderful links ranging from simple gold wire loops to wide ribbon loops with outer repousse adornment, to openwork double links that look like a depiction of the universe or knots, and large, scrolling solid links with openwork decoration. Fabulous!
Marks and Metal:
No marks, as is to be expected. Gold was tested to ensure metal purity.
Condition:
Good with negligible wear commensurate with age. One or two of the very simple links have been resoldered, but this is mentioned for the sake of accuracy as you cannot see it with your naked eye and not unless you are really looking to find it. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
