There is nothing more romantic than wearing a reminder of someone you love close to your heart. For centuries, the locket has been a lady’s favorite accessory to do just that.

Evolving from ancient amulets, European designs for lockets appear to date to the 16th century, when small pendants were worn to conceal good luck charms, small fabric squares soaked in perfume to ward off the poor smells on public thoroughfares, painted portraits, and even, on occasion, poison.

A very peculiar locket featuring a pair of windows within, this 19th-century jewel examines the fascination that Victorian England enjoyed with all things “exotic.” Appreciating the “orientalist” design of the times, I cannot help but wonder if the locket is meant to represent Sephardic iconography, as the central compartment is reminiscent of a Torah, with swirling paisley patterns, often found in Moroccan and Syrian art of this era. On the reverse, a luscious cluster of grapes is etched. 

Materials & Features: 15k gold

Age/Origin: 19th C, Victorian, English, c. 1870

Measurements: 38mm, 13.9 grams

Condition: Excellent condition. Minor associated age wear. Locket is in near-mint condition. 

Please view and inspect any photos closely. We endeavor to fully disclose all condition information clearly and concisely, however, please note that what qualifies as excellent condition for historical jewelry differs from modern and contemporary pieces; please take the age of the piece into account when examining the piece. Minor age wear is typical and to be expected for antique and vintage jewelry. Unless otherwise stated, gemstones have not been officially graded for color, clarity, or treatment by GIA; any information provided is our own educated, professional assessment.