Antique Victorian Mourning Heart Locket Ruby Turquoise Forget Me Not 18ct Gold

Dating to the late 19 th century, this exquisite antique victorian mourning heart pendant is crafted in 18ct yellow gold and framed by an intact black enamel border that continues up the bale. The black and gold contrast is synonymous with victorian mourning jewellery, symbolising grief and remembrance, while a beautifully sculpted high-relief forget-me-not flower sits in the centre. It is set with four vibrant cabochon turquoise petals and a fiery pink ruby at its centre, further emphasising deep love and devotion. The piece was likely commissioned as a mourning keepsake, designed to preserve the memory of a departed loved one close to the wearer's heart. It conceals a locket on the reverse, complete with its original window and inner rim, once intended to hold a treasured memento Most commonly a lock of hair or a tiny photographic portrait of a loved one. Exceptionally rare and highly collectable, this victorian mourning locket remains in remarkable condition over a century later. Lovingly preserved through the generations, it is ready to be treasured and worn close to the heart once more. Weight : 5.3 Grams   measures : height 24mm 35mm inc. Loop x width 21mm x depth 7mm window height 17mm x width 17mm metal : yellow gold tested 18ct stones : turquoise 2 x 2.5Mm each , ruby 1.5Mm age : victorian. Circa 1860 1880 Marks : faded 18ct stamp on the back of the loop. Condition : excellent, wear commensurate with age. Item number: aj715

Dating to the late 19 th century, this exquisite antique victorian mourning heart pendant is crafted in 18ct yellow gold and framed by an intact