Antique Turquoise Gold Locket Pendant

Antique gold locket in book shaped, height turquoises, floral pattern, bouquet of roses and butterfly on each side, the edges present granulation work, invisible hinge, open space with original human hair protected by a glass. Fixed bail and ribbed hoop.

This is magnificent French craftsmanship from the first half of the 19th century. The goldsmith used very small balls (granules) of gold along the borders, which are not soldered to the piece but welded. This technique demand very high skills and precision from the maker. Inside there is a compartment where still a lock of hair is kept.

If the jewel speaked openly of the wearer, it could also do so in secret. Rings and lockets contained a memory of a loved one: love letters, locks of hair, photographs. In the words of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, the jewel is a «sign of memories». The use of precious materials like gold and turquoise reinforced this feeling. «Do not forget me» or «think of me» translated by the color blue, a popular color used among lovers.

Locket «bouquet de roses» ref. 10165-0470

18 Carats red/yellow/green gold, ram's head hallmark

Turquoises, human hair

Date: 1817-1820

Origin: France

Dimensions: 3.04 cm (1.20 inch) by 2.42 cm (0.95 inch)

Weight: 19.80 grams