French Silver Black Enamel and Pearl Locket

With the loss of Prince Albert, Queen Victoria began a period of perpetual mourning. The influence of her fashion during this time can be seen with the popularization of mourning jewelry.

This is wonderful example of Victorian Era mourning jewelry.  The locket is encased in black enamel over silver and embellished with geometrically arranged seed pearls. Seed pearls were considered symbolic of tears. With the original glass, the interior would have accommodated a photo or a lock of hair.

Date: 1880s

Measurements: 2" including bail by 1-1/8"

Hallmarks:  French silver hallmark, the boar's head on the top ring

Condition: There is some wear to the enamel on the back of the bail and some slight scratch marks on the backside. The silver was originally gilt on the outside but now remains only on the inside. Otherwise in excellent condition