18th to Early 19th Century French Sterling, 12K Gold Locket Pendant With Kiln-fired Enamel Plaque, Seed Pearls
A stunning late 18th century to early 19th century pendant locket, likely French since it is the blend of sterling silver and gold (12k tested). Beautifully crafted, the thick magnifying locket cover 'glass' on hinged back appears to be rock crystal, opens to a deep locket into which a lock of hair was likely kept. The kiln-fired enamel plaque remains perfect, as does the mother of pearl wafer backing it. Some were mourning jewelry. You see it is enameled encircling the plaque front, dotted in white enamel on black, and mounted with seed pearls and garnets or possibly rubies (not tested), with a couple in need of replacement. I probably can replace the couple of seed pearl from my spares, and will do so. I don't have additional mine cut gems, however. The large stone on bale is 5mm. All measurements noted on photos. Very good to excellent condition for age and type, as noted a couple losses on gems/pearls encircling the kiln-fired enamel plaque. No other damage to report, the figural p