A wonderfully tactile late Victorian heart locket, crafted in 15ct gold and centred with a beautifully characterful 0.22ct old mine cut diamond.
The heart has a wonderfully simple, unfussy design, allowing the antique diamond to take centre stage. Set within a hand-cut starburst, the old mine cut has the irregular proportions and chunky faceting so loved in early diamonds, catching the light beautifully against the warm gold.
Its beautifully rounded, puffy construction gives the locket genuine internal depth, allowing it to hold a small keepsake or memento rather than serving purely as a slim photograph locket.
The locket opens at the side to reveal its original interior and closes with a reassuring, secure snap. A particularly substantial rounded bail completes the piece and is stamped “15C”, although the mark has softened with age. Surface testing gives readings higher than 15ct, suggesting the locket was likely given a richer high-carat gold wash or gilded finish over its 15ct gold construction.
It remains in very good antique condition. The locket opens and snaps securely closed. A tiny pinprick opening sits beside the diamond, where the surrounding metal appears to have been pushed over to further secure the stone; it is extremely small, does not affect the diamond's security, and is not noticeable when worn. The diamond has natural inclusions and minor girdle nibbles consistent with age, and the gold has some light surface scuffs, again unobtrusive in wear.
A beautiful example of Victorian sentimental jewellery - lovely worn alone, but substantial enough to hold its own amongst heavier antique chains and layers
