Please note, chains are for display only unless otherwise stated.
   
Large and impressive, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to offer this wonderful piece of early Australian jewellery history, crafted in the early part of the 20th century, by one of our renowned early Australian jewellery firms, Aronson & Co. 

Dating to the Edwardian era, circa 1910, this impressive oversized locket is monogramed to the front panel with the initials ‘MB’ in olde script and is crafted in 9ct rose gold, radiating that coveted, antique rosy hue.

Opening to reveal two generously sized oval compartments, the inner rims are present, while the plastic panes are later additions.  We have added pretty craft paper, easily replaceable with your cherished photographs.

To the verso, crisp hallmarks are visible, the ‘flag’ symbol denoting Aronson and Co, ‘9’ for 9ct gold and the ‘Wheatsheaf’, used by the Manufacturing Jewellers Association of Victoria as the guarantee mark for 9ct gold.  

Presenting in very good antique condition, this locket is free from dents, with very minimal superficial marks to the gold.  It opens and closes tightly and securely and the hinge mechanism is very strong despite its age.

Not only is this locket a delightful piece of early Australian jewellery history which is becoming increasingly harder to source,  it serves as a cherished keepsake for your most treasured memories, making it an ideal gift for those special moments

STONES
None

ERA
Edwardian 1901-1915

MEASUREMENTS
Drop with jump ring - 7cm x 4.8cm

WEIGHT
21.1 Grams

MARKS
‘Flag’ symbol for Aronson & Co.
‘9’ for 9ct gold
‘Wheatsheaf’ Manufacturing Jewellers Association guarantee marks for 9ct gold

CONDITION
Very good antique condition.  A large and wonderfully oversized locket with only minimal marks to gold.  No dents, some very very minor bruising which for the age is insignificant and barely noticeable.  Opens and closes with a snap.  Inner rims are present but ‘plastic’ panes are replacements.  Hallmarks clear.  Hinge is strong with no fragility or movements.  

HISTORY OF ARONSON & CO.

Aronson & Co. was the successor of Rosenthal, Aronson and Co. founded in 1878.
David Rosenthal, taking advantage of the opportunities that were to flow from the gold discoveries in Victoria in 1851, had built up a considerable wholesale jewellery and importing business in Melbourne during the 1860’s and 1870’s.

In 1874 David Rosenthal’s business became ‘David Rosenthal and Co., of 15 Collins Street West. The ‘and Co.’ was Saul Philip Aronson who was listed as a partner in 1876.

in 1878 George Alfred Aronson joined the partnership. The firm became Rosenthal, Aronson and Co.

From 1889 to 1892 they were listed at 362 little Collins Street. In 1893 they moved to 275-281 Lonsdale Street Melbourne. Along with their Australian departments they also had offices in London.

By 1898 they were also trading at 97 Queen Street, Brisbane.

At some stage unknown to us, there were four brothers involved in the business….Saul, George, Norman, and Frederick Aronson!

In 1900 the various partnership arrangements involving the four brothers were dissolved.  By 1902 the Australian operations were incorporated as Aronson and Co. Pty Ltd at 297-299 Little Collins street Melbourne.  The newly formed company advertised as manufacturing jewellers and importers. The established wholesaling operation in Sydney and Brisbane were continued, and a branch was opened in Adelaide in 1912.

The Aronsons closed their manufactory in the midst of the Great Depression in 1930. 
Norman Aronson had retired in 1927 having spent 53 years in the trade.
Aronson and Co. continued to operate as wholesalers and importers in Sydney until 1947.

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