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Step back into a bygone era with this exquisite antique Victorian mourning locket pendant, a poignant relic from the late 19th century that whispers tales of love, loss, and enduring memory. Crafted in rich yellow gold—likely 14k or 18k, evoking the warm glow of candlelit parlors—this small circular treasure measures approximately 1.5 cm in diameter, perfect for nesting close to the heart on a delicate chain. The front features a striking Cross Pattée design, its flared arms adorned with sparkling rose-cut diamonds that catch the light like distant stars in a night sky. At the center sits a deep black onyx stone, symbolizing the profound grief and eternal remembrance so central to Victorian mourning traditions. Imagine the hands that once held it, perhaps a widow cherishing a lock of hair or a faded photograph of a beloved departed soul inside its hinged compartment.
This locket isn't just jewelry; it's a vessel for emotions, a tangible link to ancestors who navigated life's deepest sorrows with grace and symbolism. In the Victorian age, such pieces were worn to honor the dead, turning personal tragedy into wearable art. The diamonds, though small (estimated total carat weight 0.3-0.5ct), represent purity and resilience, while the onyx embodies the quiet strength of mourning. Note the authentic patina of age—subtle wear, a few missing stones (about 5-7 absent from the original 20+ settings), and remnants in the prong-set holes on the reverse, adding to its storied charm. These imperfections tell a story: perhaps it was passed down through generations, tucked away in a velvet box during family gatherings, evoking tears and tender recollections.
Owning this locket means embracing history's embrace. Picture slipping it on for a special occasion, feeling the weight of memories—your own or those imagined from a sepia-toned past. It's ideal for collectors of sentimental jewelry, history enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a meaningful heirloom to pass on. Whether displayed in a shadow box or worn daily, it stirs the soul, reminding us that love transcends time. Meticulously photographed from all angles, what you see is the genuine article, ready to become part of your legacy. Don't let this rare find slip away—Buy it now and hold a piece of Victorian romance forever.
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))
Offered by Gosla Antiques & Collectibles, purveyors of antiquities, curiosities and collectible wares. Dispatched from Pennsylvania, United States, with tracking.