2 200 €
Hide pricesThis antique 18-carat gold photo locket pendant is decorated with black enamel and adorned with a bow set with rose-cut diamonds. It opens to allow a photograph or a lock of hair to be inserted, held in place by a small glass cover in perfect condition. The opening and closing mechanism functions very well. Work from the mid-19th century.
| Weight | 10,98 g |
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Dimensions - bow included (cm) |
4 X 2 |
| Ref. | #7145 |
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Photo lockets in the 19th century
In the 19th century, jewelry was not only ornamental but also carried a strong sentimental and personal dimension. Among these pieces, photo lockets held a special place. Usually worn as pendants on a chain, these jewels allowed the wearer to keep the portrait of a loved one or a personal keepsake, such as a lock of hair, close at hand.
The popularity of photo lockets was closely linked to the social and artistic developments of the period. Even before the widespread use of photography, these lockets could contain painted miniatures, often executed on ivory. With the arrival and gradual democratization of photography in the mid-19th century, they became an ideal way to preserve small photographic portraits.
These jewels were most often made in gold, sometimes in silver, and could be decorated in many ways. Jewelers employed various decorative techniques such as enameling, engraving, and the setting of precious or semi-precious stones. Some models were simple and elegant, while others featured symbolic motifs such as bows, flowers, monograms, or geometric designs.
The lockets usually open on a discreet hinge, revealing a compartment protected by a small glass cover or inner frame designed to hold the photograph or keepsake in place. This ingenious construction helped preserve the contents while allowing them to remain visible.
Beyond their decorative aspect, these jewels reflect a time when personal objects held a deep emotional value. Given as tokens of affection, worn in remembrance of a loved one, or used to keep the image of someone dear close by, photo lockets embody the romantic spirit of the 19th century.
Today, these antique jewels continue to appeal through their timeless charm and historical significance, reminding us how past generations sought to keep their most precious memories close to them.
