Please note, chains are for display only unless otherwise stated.

A rare treasure from Australia’s early silversmithing heritage, this antique Sterling silver gilt-over double-sided locket by F.J. Mole(circa 1915–1920) is a true collector’s piece. 

Crafted by one of Australia’s esteemed early makers, it bears the authentic hallmarks of F.J. Mole — a capital M, an emu, and a Maltese cross — proudly stamped to the rear compartment.

Measuring an impressive 4 cm in diameter (5.3 cm drop with the bolt ring), this locket commands attention with its elegant presence. The front panel features a beautifully engraved monogram “RB”, rendered in a flowing, stylised script that captures the romance of the Edwardian/Deco era.

The soft golden hue of the original gilt wash remains in lovely condition. Both sides open smoothly and close with a satisfying snap, and reveal inside two original rims, taffeta and plastic panes ready to hold your own cherished photographs.

Versatile and striking, the large bolt ring allows it to be worn on a variety of chains — from a delicate antique necklace to a bold antique watch chain.if desired.
 Whether worn as a statement piece or treasured as part of a collection, this F.J. Mole locket is a captivating piece of Australian history, blending craftsmanship, elegance, and sentiment in perfect harmony.

STONES
None

MEASUREMENTS
Drop from bolt ring - 5.3cm
Locket - 3.9cm round
Bolt ring - 1.5cm round 

WEIGHT
14.10 Grams

MARKS
Fully hallmarked for Frederick James Mole - ‘M - Emu - Maltese Cross’
‘STERLING SILVER’ (Gilt washed over)

ERA
1915-1920’s

CONDITION
Very good to excellent antique condition.  This is a special and quite rare piece of all original antique Austrlaliana jewellery. Opens and closes with a snap. Bolt ring is very firm and strong.  Engraving to monogram is stunning, no wear.  Gilt wash over the Sterling Silver is lovey, bright and with only slight fading, minor marks only, noting for accuracy.  A strikingly beautiful piece of collectible Australian history.  

HISTORY OF FREDERICK JAMES MOLE

Frederick James Mole, trained in England and New Zealand, established F.J. Mole & Co. in Brisbane in 1913, operating from Stanley Street, South Brisbane, for about 70 years. 
The firm specialised in gold and silverware, focusing on craftsmanship rather than mass production. 

Early products included personal and domestic silver items such as vesta cases, compacts, napkin rings, and condiment sets.  From 1915, the company used distinctive trademarks: “M” for Mole, the “Emu” for Australia, and the “Maltese Cross” for Queensland.

By the mid-1920s, F.J. Mole & Co. gained recognition for producing ecclesiastical silverware and sterling silver sporting trophies. The business remained small and family-oriented, passing through several skilled hands — from Mole to his apprentice K.G. Ketelaar, then to Mole’s daughter Helene Cole, and later to K.R. Eager and C.W. Best. After the Bests’ retirement in 1976, Kevin Eager became sole proprietor. Over the decades, F.J. Mole & Co. supplied fine silverware to major Australian jewellers such as Hardy Bros., Gaunts, and Stevenson Bros.

Australian Jewellers: Gold & Silversmiths Makers & Marks. Cavill, Cocks & Grace