RARE FIND! This Antique Victorian-era oval-shaped pinchbeck double keepsake locket is a beautiful and historically significant piece that embodies the sentimental and intricate craftsmanship of the 19th century.
The locket is crafted from Pinchbeck, a special gold substitute alloy developed in the early 18th century by Christopher Pinchbeck. This material was highly prized during the Georgian and Victorian eras for its gold-like appearance while being more affordable.
The locket is generous in size and oval-shaped, making it an eye-catching piece that allows for meaningful keepsakes to be stored inside.
This is a double keepsake locket, meaning it opens from both sides, a rare and desirable feature. Inside, there is a central keepsake holder designed to hold special mementos, such as a lock of hair, a pressed flower, or a small portrait.
The original glass windows remain intact, which is unusual for antique lockets, as glass is often lost or replaced over time. These windows serve to protect the keepsakes inside while allowing for display.
The front and back panels feature fine diamond-shaped engravings, a common decorative motif in the Victorian era.
The doors of the locket have scalloped edges, adding a delicate and refined aesthetic.
Lockets were immensely popular during the Victorian era (1837–1901), particularly in mourning jewelry and sentimental keepsakes. They often contained portraits, miniature paintings, locks of hair, or even fabric pieces from a loved one’s garment.
While single-opening lockets were common, double-opening lockets were more rare and were often used for memorial purposes or to hold keepsakes from both parents, lovers, or children.
*chain not included*
Measurements :The locket measures 3.5cm x 3cm excluding the bail.The locket with a weight of 22.9grams.
