DATE: Victorian, c.1870

An outstanding Victorian quatrefoil locket with gem-set pansy motif on the front. The smaller two petals are represented by asymmetrical pear-shaped almandine garnet cabochons, unusually cut with pavilion facets while the other petals and the centre are set with chunky old mine cut diamonds. The name pansy derived from the French word pensée, or "thought", so here (amid the wave of 19th century Victorian sentimentality) represents the sentiment: "Thinking of You...". Thus, the locket would likely have been gifted as a token of affection. It dates from the 1870s, crafted in 15 karat gold throughout.

STONES 

Almandine Garnet & Old Mine Cut Diamonds

MEASUREMENTS 

3.1 x 2.2cm

WEIGHT 

10.5g

MARKS 

No marks present, tests as 15k gold

CONDITION 

Very good, light wear/patina commensurate with age