Exceptional beauty, a little 1 3/8" diameter mourning locket brooch of finest quality. The gold acid tests at 14k, but could be 15k or 16k. I do not have acid for those. The exquisitely crafted brooch is set with facet-cut jet beads in a star-burst form, evenly set around the center deep dome of either crystal or perhaps rock crystal. It's interior space has a lock of gray hair. Pin back typical of the mid-1800s, but I think the clasp has been replaced at some point. Look closely at that to see what I mean. I don't see how to open the locket, and it is not hinged so either it lifts out or its been soldered closed from backside. But without prying on it, I suspect the front will come loose and open that way.
Very good to excellent condition, no breaks to beads, and no chips or damage to the thick cover glass; no dents or damage to the gold, which is confirmed at least 14k and is yellow in color. Very light surface abrasions not really visible with naked eye.
