Identification and Period
Period: Late Victorian Era (circa 1870s - 1890s)
This brooch is a classic example of the jewelry popular during the later reign of Queen Victoria. It combines several key elements that firmly place it in this time frame.
Key Identifying Features:
The 'C' Clasp: The back of the bow features a simple, open 'C' clasp and a tube hinge. As with the previous filigree brooch, this construction predates the widespread use of modern safety clasps and is a hallmark of 19th-century manufacturing.
Sentimental Design: Locket brooches were immensely popular in the Victorian era. They were considered "sentimental jewelry," allowing the wearer to keep small portraits of loved ones close to their heart.
Aesthetic Style: The design, with its detailed bow, twisted rope border, and applied floral motifs, is characteristic of the Aesthetic Movement period, which valued beauty, nature, and intricate craftsmanship.
Use of Seed Pearls: The tiny pearls accenting the bow and the face of the locket are another signature element of this era's jewelry.
Description
Type: This is a bow locket brooch. It was designed to be worn as a decorative pin while also serving the personal function of a locket.
Materials: The piece is most likely made of gilt brass or is gold-filled. The dark, warm patina is the result of over a century of age and wear on the original gold finish. The small white beads are likely genuine seed pearls.
Craftsmanship: The brooch features a textured ribbon bow from which an oval locket is suspended. The locket face is beautifully decorated with applied, granulated serpentine forms and tiny flowers, each centered with a seed pearl. The interior is designed to hold two small photographs.
Estimated Value
This is a very charming and collectible type of antique jewelry. The combination of the bow motif and the functional locket makes it more desirable than a simple brooch from the same period.
Based on recent sales of similar unsigned Victorian locket brooches, the estimated resale value for this piece is in the $85 to $150 CAD range.
The value is dependent on a few factors:
Condition: The brooch appears to be in very good antique condition. The value is highest if the locket hinge is strong, it closes securely, and all the original seed pearls are present. The aged patina is considered desirable and adds to its authenticity.
Complexity: The detailed decoration on the locket face and the use of multiple seed pearls add to its appeal and value.
This is a truly lovely and personal piece of history, representing the Victorian fascination with sentiment, symbolism, and detailed ornamentation.