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French IVY Vine Antique HEART Solid Silver Locket Art Nouveau Victorian Mourning
$ 102.43
- Description
- Size Guide
Description
I am selling an assortment of vintage to antique jewelry which I have hunted for and gathered from around the world. Please see my other offerings and thanks for stopping by!ABOUT:
Interesting and not frequently seen antique locket pendant in a heart shape with Art Nouveau ivy vines - it is decorated in this manner on both sides so it is completely reversible. A bit deeper than your average locket, the lid can be removed to open it and insert mini charms, perhaps some tiny gemstones, keepsakes or photos. It doesn't hinge open and closed, but rather comes open in two pieces. A unique form with beautiful naturalistic design and movement. It has a cut glass pane inserted into the front and back cover allowing you to see inside the box.
This is an antique piece from the Belle Epoque period that I acquired in France. The ivy motif was popular in Victorian times in mourning jewelry as it represents life and eternity (essentially immortality), along with clinging attachment. It also was used to express fidelity, friendship and eternity.
There is currently an old thick piece of cotton inside to provide tension to hold the glass panes in place. Please note the glass panes are loose in the silver frames on each side so if you remove that cotton they would rattle and cave in. The cotton puts pressure on the two lids, holding the glass panes in place. It actually holds them pretty securely so if you were to use the box to hold photos, you could keep the cotton in place between the photos and it would not be seen. However if you plan to use it to hold charms, you would likely need to epoxy or glue the glass frames into place so they stay inside each lid without the cotton.
The pendant measures about 1 1/4" tall. 5.6mm deep
MARKS:
The rim is marked with the French boar's head hallmark for solid silver items. The loop is hallmarked as well with the silversmith stamp.
IMPORTANT CONDITION NOTES:
Please note that all my pieces are in estate condition. The glass panes are free from the frames as described above. A few areas of stubborn tarnish but I actually like the Age appropriate patina. No deep dings, dents or bends, just some uniform surface wear. The cover doesn't snap in place, but slides open and closed snugly and does not seem in danger of opening on its own. But the cotton is needed to hold the glass in place.
But Please note due to age, this piece is not in mint condition.
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