Object Description
A stunning late Victorian diamond heart shaped pendant locket c.1896, the domed heart fully pavé set to the front with old mine cut diamonds and centred with a single pear shape, all in a pierced out silver setting backed with gold, the rounded back of the pendant in plain polished 18ct gold, the pendant opens to one side to reveal a glazed locket compartment with a four leaf clover inside and the dates 1875 – 1896 engraved at the top, indicating this is likely to have been a 21st birthday present, the pendant suspended from a diamond-set navette shaped bale and hung from an 18ct gold and pearl snake chain. This piece is in lovely condition and at 3cm wide and tall is a significant but still wearable size. The Victorian’s were hugely fond of the heart motif in jewellery no doubt influenced by Queen Victoria’s fondness for the shape. One of her most precious and personal pieces was a charm bracelet with nine differently coloured enamel hearts on it, each representing one of her children. Tokens of love and sentiment feature prominently in the jewellery of this period, in fact the heart has never been used quite so prominently as during the 19th century. The motif remains beloved by many and this locket pendant is a particularly beautiful representation of it. The inclusion of the four-leaf clover was obviously intended to bring the wearer luck, it is a wonderfully thoughtful and very beautiful gift and we can only wonder at who the giver and receiver were. The diamonds are lovely quality and very bright and sparkling, they have been expertly selected to create an even and tightly packed pave finish. Whether hanging from a long gold chain, a delicate diamond one or even a silk ribbon, this beautiful heart is sure to bring delight to whose ever neck it graces next, and we hope it brings much luck as well!
Period
Late Victorian, circa 1896
Origin
Likely French
Gemstones
Old cut diamonds estimated to weigh an approximate total of 10cts
Setting
Gold with French assay mark to loop, engraved to the inside top edge with the dates 1875 – 1896
Weight
23 grams
Dimensions
3cm / 1.18″ wide x 3cm / 1.18″ tall (exclusive of bale)
Bale 1.3cm / 0.51″ long
Condition
Very fine