2 300 €
Hide pricesThis antique 18-karat gold photo pendant is finely crafted and enamelled in black.
The glass is thick and in good condition, as is the opening/closing mechanism.
French craftsmanship from the second half of the 19th century.
| Weight | 8,10 g |
|---|---|
|
Dimensions - bow not included (cm) |
2,3 X 1,7 |
| Ref. | #7497 |
|---|
Napoleon III photo lockets crafted in gold and decorated with enamel are among the most charming jewels of the second half of the nineteenth century. Designed to hold the portrait of a loved one, a lock of hair or another treasured keepsake, they reflect a period when jewellery was deeply connected to memory and personal sentiment.
Made in 18-carat gold, these lockets are often embellished with black, blue or white enamel, sometimes enhanced with delicate floral motifs, garlands or finely executed monograms. Some examples are further adorned with natural pearls, rose-cut diamonds or small coloured gemstones, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of the period.
The reverse opens to reveal a glazed compartment designed to protect a miniature photograph or cherished memento. More than simply decorative jewels, these lockets were intended to preserve personal memories while displaying remarkable goldsmithing skills.
Today, Napoleon III gold and enamel photo lockets remain highly sought after by collectors and lovers of antique jewellery. Whether worn on a gold chain, a velvet ribbon or suspended from an antique long chain, they continue to embody the elegance, craftsmanship and sentimental value that define the finest nineteenth-century French jewellery.
