Victorian Silver Buckle Locket And Belcher Chain
$695.00
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SOLD
Incredible Victorian silver buckle locket and belcher chain. The locket has beautiful detailing on the front featuring a raised belt and buckle motif popular during the Victorian era. The chain was probably handcrafted and has round embossed links secured with a round bolt clasp. This type of heavy link was worn by fashionable men and women of the time.
The back of the locket has the most beautiful hand engraved inscription and is dated 23 September 1882.
When I first spotted this beautiful piece of jewellery at an antiques fair in England this year I knew that I had to bring it home with me. These buckle lockets are hard to find and the fact that this one is in such great antique condition and has a chain from the same era is amazing. It is a truly unique and beautiful necklace.
Symbolism was very important in Victorian jewellery and the buckle was a popular motif. It represented eternity, fidelity/loyalty, strength and protection. The symbol curves around and threads back onto itself, creating an eternal loop.
Container jewellery to house tokens and special items have been around since Egyptian times and the first “lockets” held medicinal herbs, religious relics, prayers or perfumes. Elizabeth 1 is thought to have owned one of the first sentimental lockets which was a ring depicting tiny portraits of both herself and her mother Anne Boleyn. Before the invention of photography locks of hair were often put in lockets to remind you of loved ones. The popularity of lockets as a keepsake grew with the widespread use of photography and endures today.
The locket measures 6.5cm x 5.5cm (including the bail). The total length of the chain is 52cm which includes the bolt ring clasp.
This unique piece of jewellery may have signs of wear due to its history. It is beautifully imperfect and should be treated with love and care. This piece of jewellery is in great antique condition.
All Vonk Jewellery is presented in a gift box and pouch with luxe ribbon. If you would like a gift message included please message me at checkout.
