Charming and early locket dating to around the turn of the last century circa 1900.

Crafted from rosy hued 15ct gold in the form of a shield shaped opening locket to which a central shield shaped Sardonyx plaque with the initials (we believe) are ’TTA C’ in olde script.

A delicate and fine etched pattern surrounds the Sardonyx and is replicated to the verso of the locket also.

Opening to reveal its two original glass panels and frames which are just waiting to pop your favourite treated photos or perhaps a miniature dried floral arrangement from a special day!

Also inside to one compartment is a ‘Kite’ mark indicating the day, month and year this design was registered - 2/12/1863.  Please see below for some interesting information in registration marks.

In lovely condition for her approximately 120 years this lovely locket looks simply beautiful on your favourite chain.

HISTORY OF KITE MARKS

During the Victorian Era in Great Britain, in addition to their hallmarking conventions, a diamond-shaped (or lozenge-shaped) Design Registration Mark (1842-1883), known as a “kitemark” was used on jewelry and other decorative arts. These marks were stamped to indicate the date a particular design was registered, similar to a patent mark. Since kitemarks simply register designs they cannot be relied on to provide an accurate date of manufacture.

Kitemarks from 1842-1867 consisted of the “Class” at the top within a circle, the “Year” at the top, the “Month” at the left point, “Day” at the right and “Bundle” number at the bottom. From 1868-1883 the “Day” was at the top, “Bundle” on the left, “Year” on the right and “Month” at the bottom.

These marks can be helpful in circa dating a piece but do little, if anything, to identify the maker. Kitemarks were replaced by Registration Serial Numbers in 1884.

Reference: https://www.langantiques.com/university/kitemarks/


STONES
Sardonyx

MEASUREMENTS
2.3cm x 1.9cm - Not including top loop and jump ring

WEIGHT
7 Grams

MARKS
Registration Kite mark
Tested via XRF as 15ct

CONDITION
Very good antique condition.  Minor marks and very very slight impression to rear of locket.  No chips or abrasions to Sardonyx. Opens and snaps shut securely.  Inside retains original glass and frames.

Please note chains are for display only unless otherwise stated.