Antique Victorian Heart Pendant Locket 18k Gold Diamonds Enamel French (7096)

Antique Victorian Napoleon III pendant locket. 18k yellow gold, diamonds, enamel and glass. Made in France circa 1860.

Measurements: Weight is 7.8 grams. 6 Old European Cut diamonds measure 2.24ct and are light yellow diamonds. Height 1.9cm.

Description : Small, beautifully made heart-shaped locket pendant. Front and back hearts joined by a sturdy hinge on one side. Bevelled glass encloses the back. Sides of hearts, front and back are very finely engraved with flowing zig-zags containing disks of gold, foliage and other tiny details. Forming a V are 5 round Old Mine Cut diamonds that appear to float over the heart. Cushion cut. Black enamelled borders trace the shape of the diamonds and openwork. Openwork is supported by inner 'pillars' on the inside of the upper heart. A tiny loop connects pendant to bale, which contains a matching diamond and black enamel detail. Bale is large enough to hold quite a thick chain. Old diamonds of an intrigueing light yellow color are slightly graduated with the largest at the bottom in the middle. Lovely old, French workmanship. Totally romantic. Suitable to wear at any / all times and would make a perfect engagement gift.

Marks and Metal: the loop connecting to the bale with French hallmarks: lozenge with initials that could be two C's or two O's, another unclear mark, a French for 18k gold - could be the eagle head, but it looks like the ram's head, which dates the ring to a much earlier period.

Condition: Good with negligible wear commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer. Professional, independent gemological appraisal.