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Antique 14k Victorian Mourning Locket/Book Chain
$4,275.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
This locket may be the MVP of this collection...
I have yet to find one similar, making this piece all the more unique!
The chain features beautifully crafted mesh style links, with ornate floral decorative link at both ends of the box clasp, and at the top and bottom of the extender for the locket.
The locket itself has an intricately carved pattern on it's face outline in black enamel, and a rose in the center, outline in a light blue enamel.
I have styled this chain and locket with one or two very thin chains layered atop to test out a maximalist look -- however, it is a piece that needs no accompaniment as it's extraordinary and distinctive craftsmanship are apparent on any wearer!
Victorian mourning lockets became used as popular sentimental jewelry pieces, after Queen Victoria wore a locket containing hair and a photo of Prince Albert after his death in 1861. Her public display of grief and the symbolism of carrying a piece of lost loved one, popularized the wearing of mourning jewelry pieces. Early designs of mourning symbols featured somber motifs like skulls and coffins, but these evolved into softer motifs like angels, flowers, and weeping willows to name a few.
Details:
*Circa 1870, box clasp
☆ material: 14k gold & enamel (on locket face)
☆ weight: 42.3 g/27.19 dwt
☆ length: chain is 16.5" with 25. mm/2.5 cm drop to clasp, locket is 35 mm/3.5 cm
☆ width: chain is 5 mm/0.5 cm, locket is 30 mm/3 cm wide
☆ hallmarks: N/A, acid tested 14k
☆ maker's mark: N/A
Price: $4,275.00 USD
*Payment Plan Eligible*
CARE & MAINTENANCE
*NOTE: Different gemstones require different kinds of care. Diamonds are the hardest gems on the Mohs scale and will scratch themselves and other gems. Store these away from other diamond items as well as other gemstones. Pearls are one of the softest, and require careful cleaning. Emeralds and topaz are prone to scratching, so you may want to limit cleaning. You can pay for a professional cleaning if you'd like, and even re-oiling after years of wear. It is easy to research how to clean each type of gem but please reach out if you have any specific questions*
GOLD, SILVER & DIAMOND CLEANING:
Proper care & maintenance for vintage, estate, and antique jewelry, involves appropriate cleaning and proper storage. This applies to modern pieces as well. It is best to AVOID harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and excessive moisture. Jewelry should be stored out of sunligh in an individual pouch or box (if it is a delicate piece or a semi-hollow item I would recommend storing in a hard covered box or case), and in a cool, dry place.
While it is not necessary to clean your jewelry after each wear, a quick wipe down after every few uses to keep oils at bay, should keep it looking bright and shiny!
Cleaning Recommendations:
I use a soft, lint free coth to gently wipe away any dirt, oils, etc. I like to use a mild soap solution of 1/4 soap, 3/4 warm water and get foam going with a gentle stir (my preference is regular Dawn dish soap (unscented), OR Dawn foaming wash (unscented).
Depending on how dirty the item is, I may let it sit anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour or so. If you item is fairly dirty you will see this debris in the water after you take the piece out! After the item has sat in the solution, I use a baby toothbrush to gently scrub around all areas. By this point, any trapped dirt, skin, etc. will have been loosened and can be scrubbed out.
Thoroughly dry the item after cleaning, and make sure there is no excess moisture. Use a soft cloth and maybe compressed air (or blow) to make sure all moisture is gone.
Lastly, I use a polishing cloth to restore the item's luster and shine.
Most jeweler's offer professional cleaning services if you wish to do this every 6 months to a year
SHIPPING & RETURNS
All items marked as "SOLD" will be shipped within 1-3 business days once payment is confirmed. Shipping times and costs depend on the method selected at checkout.
Items are eligible for return within 14 business days of delivery, as long as they haven't been altered (resized, clasp changes, stones replacements, etc.) Please see our full refund policy for details on how to initiate a return.
Modern Pieces detailed as "New and never worn," are just that. Brand new pieces that have never been worn.
While pre-loved jewelry is inspected and cleaned before it ships, vintage and estate pieces may show signs of prior wear -- any notable wear is called out in the item description. If your items arrives damaged or not as described, email "nectar.treasuresco@gmail.com" within 24 hours of delivery with photos and a description of the issues.