Antique Victorian Necklace Gold Turquoise Diamond Pearl Bird Heart Locket (6990)

Antique Victorian Archaeological Revival necklace and locket. 15k Gold, turquoise, rubies and diamonds. Made in England, circa 1860's to 1870's during the Archaeological Revival period. Measurements: Length 17 inches (43cm). Bird and heart drop 1 3/4 inches (4 1/2cm) from top to bottom. Weight is 26.4 grams. Description : Festoon necklace with swooping gold loops anchored by stations of pave-set turquoise spheres connected via loops to torpedo-shaped gold drops. The loops allow the gold drops to move independently. The central feature is a magnificent swooping bird, a dove with a pearl, believed to be natural (but not tested) suspended from its mouth. The eyes of the dove are rubies and the head is set with an Old Mine Cut diamond. The attachment of the bird is very unusual - it is like a slide with the chain looping through a par of gold tubes at the back of its body and providing the support for the heart locket drop. The locket, attached via gold loops to the chain can swing and move independently of the rest of the necklace. It is heart-shaped and like the bird, pave set with turquoise. A diamond in a star-shaped mount is set in the center of the heart. The back has a compartment to hold hair of a loved one. Gold chain with rectangular links forming cubic train is the main support of the necklace. The festoon drops are also 3-dimentional, but lobed in form. Clasp in the form of a tongue in groove, with a long, gold tube, very finely chased. Pave set turquoise birds were found in England after 1840, when Queen Victoria gave each of her 12 bridesmaids a turquoise, pave set eagle, the symbol of Coburg. In France, swooping birds called St Esprit, were symbols of the Holy Spirit. This particular bird is a dove and the pearl it carries in it's mouth and heart suspended beneath its breast are more romantic and lovely. Our dove is a symbol of love that each and every one of us can relate to and enjoy. The romantic theme is emphasized by the lovely turquoise locket heart. Marks and Metal: No marks, typical of the period. Gold was acid tested to ensure purity. Condition: In over 150 years of its life, the necklace has been beautifully cared for and comes to us in great condition. One previous owner has added a little to the length of the chain, either to make for a longer drop or to fit a larger neck. The new owner could easily remove the extra chain and restore the necklace to its original length if you so desire. Small dings to gold are mentioned for the sake of accuracy. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.