Large Onyx, Pearl and Gold Mourning Locket, c. 1880

This sentimental antique pendant, a locket, is designed to keep the memory of a loved one alive. All of its details are geared towards this purpose, from its color to its shape. The large oval pendant has been cut from a single onyx and polished to a shine. On its front, we see a cross made of shimmering natural pearls. Finely set in gold settings, it appears to float against the deep black background, making the pendant a typical piece of mourning jewelry. Alongside dark onyx or similar black gemstones, pearls were the only precious stones that could be worn during mourning in the 19th century. They were regarded both as a sign of pure love and as symbols of tears. And the color of the onyx is of course also meant to be eloquent: it is the color of mourning, reminiscent of a person who has gone to God. Well protected by the cross and religion, the person whose picture can be kept in a glazed compartment on the back is probably waiting in heaven. This beautiful, well-preserved pendant was created around 1880.

Estimate:£992.85

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