Antique Victorian 9ct Rose Gold Mourning “In Memory Of’ Enamel Onyx Locket Circa 1870-80
This mid-Victorian mourning locket/brooch is a stunning example of its type and is crafted in 9ct rose gold.
It showcases a beautifully carved Onyx cameo with fern leaves and an urn, a design that peaked in popularity during Neoclassicism before fading away in the early 19th century.
Three dimensional in construction, the Onyx cameo taking centre stage, surrounded by exquisite foliate motifs in relief, to the vitreous black enamel and gold ‘In Memory Of’, and to the outer edges further finely intricate enamelling.
To the verso we find the original locket compartment and original woven hair matting ( this could be removed if desired ), original C claps and pin.
A large example measuring 4cm x 3.5cm, an impressive 10.9 grams in weight, and retaining its original 9ct gold (stamped) safety pin and chain.
‘The phrase “In Memory Of" on mourning jewellery typically signifies a piece worn to honour and remember a departed loved one. These pieces often bear symbols or inscriptions representing the deceased, acting as a tangible reminder of their memory. Such jewellery was worn to keep the memory of the loved one alive and close to the heart. Mourning hair jewellery, like woven plaits adorning rings, pendants, brooches, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, was a popular way to commemorate a loved one”.
Today, sentimental and mourning jewellery is highly sought-after for collections, especially pieces in excellent condition, showcasing both exceptional craftsmanship and the sentimental value they hold.
STONES
Carved Onyx
MEASUREMENTS
4cm x 3.5cm
WEIGHT
10.90 Grams
MARKS
None
Tested as
CONDITION
Very very good antique condition. Enamel is lovely with no losses. Original C clasp and pin with no repairs, and original 9ct (stamped) safety pin. Onyx in well carved and well set. Rear locket compartment is original and original woven hair inside. Minor marks to gold at verso, nothing significant. Lovely piece.
Please note boxes are for display only unless otherwise stated.
Laybys & Hold Policy
Do you have your eye on a fabulous piece but need some extra time to
pay? At Graisons, we offer suitable layby terms for pieces priced $400 AUD and above. Contact us for more details.
Purchase Guide & Refund Policy
For information regarding our Purchase Guide & Returns Policy, please click here
Shipping & Delivery
Free Complimentary Express Shipping: Australia & Select International Countries.
We are pleased to offer free complimentary express postage, fully insured with tracking and signature on delivery using Australia Post.
For all international purchases, a third party postal company will complete the final stage of delivery.
Orders are dispatched within one-two business days of purchase. Once complete, a tracking number will be forwarded to you via email notification.
We are currently shipping to the following international countries:
UK, USA, CANADA, SINGAPORE, NEW ZEALAND, HONG KONG.
PLEASE NOTE: Any duties imposed by countries for importing our items are the buyers responsibility. Please contact your local customs agency if you wish to discuss potential rates and fees.
Caring For Antique & Vintage Jewellery
We absolutely pride ourselves on sourcing the best quality pieces for our customers, with many of our items valued by our registered jeweller/gemologist.
Our collection consists of pieces that are of antique and vintage condition, which means that all our items are secondhand and used. Customers are not purchasing 'new', 'perfect' and 'unworn items', and as such, should expect wear and imperfection. Any condition issues are always extensively mentioned in the condition summary.
Please do not hesitate to ask questions prior to purchase. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to ensure that these descriptions and pictures are carefully viewed and any questions are asked prior to the transaction taking place.
Please refer to our guide, Caring For Antique & Vintage Jewellery for more details.
Your Purchase: What Is Included?
Your purchase will be lovingly packaged in our custom made, eco-friendly Graisons Fine Jewellery Jewel box tied with ribbon inside our custom made packaging/mailing box.
For added safety and security, all purchases are shipped inside an Australia Post medium sized mailing box.
If your item includes an independent valuation, the physical certificate will be included.
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