Stunningly fine and early 22k gold mourning brooch with a 1.5" seed pearl surround, dating c.1820-30, the work is magnificent on that small hinged locket within which gold monogram rests, backed by loose seed pearls. The locket has, I'm quite sure, rock crystal on both sides rather than glass. It has a very different look to it, and the 22k gold and high quality of construction would also suggest it. The locket would have originally held a plaiting or lock of hair, based on the type of item it is. Came to us with the interior filled with seed pearls, instead. Relatively simple to open it and remove those, insert your own memento. Deeper than most, the double-sided gold locket center is 3.8" in depth. Pin and c-clamp perfectly preserved, and seed pearls a lovely work against the typical matrix of mother of pearl, strung with fine horse hair in the original manner. Seed pearls signified the tears of the mourner. As you can see, these range in compliments of creamy pale to a silver and tan tint. Still highly pearlescent and range in size from 1mm to 3mm.
Very good to excellent for age and type. The gold has been tested at a very high 22k, is without damage. Double convex high-polished rock crystal, or at least crystal rather than glass covers both sides of the locket center. Our photos are greatly enlarged to allow you review of all details, front and back.
