Victorian/Edwardian 15K Yellow Gold Heart Locket or Pendant
Pendant / Locket · Antique Yellow Gold with high copper and silver alloy content
Purity: 15K / 625 (62.5% pure gold)
Type
Pendant / Locket
Purity
15K / 625 (62.5% pure gold)
Gold Type
Antique Yellow Gold with high copper and silver alloy content
Weight
2 to 6 grams (estimated total weight for a small to medium locket)
Description
A beautiful example of British antique jewelry, this heart-shaped pendant is crafted in 15-karat gold, a purity unique to a specific window of history. The reverse shows a textured, brushed-looking finish with a crisp period-correct hallmark. This piece represents the romanticism of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, likely intended as a sentimental love token or mourning piece.
Key Features
Rare 15ct purity stamp; iconic heart silhouette; hand-finished textural surface
Color & Finish
Rich, deep yellow gold with a matte/textured surface and age-appropriate scratching/patina
Hallmarks & Stamps
Clear '15ct' stamp in a rectangular cartouche, characteristic of British Victorian and Edwardian jewelry
Dimensions Estimate
15mm to 22mm width (standard petite to medium locket size)
Gemstones & Inlays
None visible in this crop; front likely features engraving, pearls, or a paste stone
Clasp & Closure
Bail and jump ring visible; likely attached to a fine trace or curb link chain
Chain & Links
Hand-assembled jump rings; main body appears to be a stamped two-part construction
Craftsmanship Details
Likely stamped from thin gold sheets (die-struck) and hand-finished with an applied texture and soldered bail.
Authentication Indicators
15ct stamp style matches historical British assay standards; color is consistent with 62.5% gold content; no signs of plating wear (brassing)
Origin & Maker
United Kingdom; maker unknown but follows British hallmarking standards
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Edwardian (circa 1854-1932)
Age Estimate
Produced between 1854 and 1932 (the years 15K gold was an official British standard)
Cultural Significance
Heart lockets in 15K gold were quintessential gifts during the Victorian era, symbolizing affection, betrothal, or remembrance.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good; visible surface scratches expected for a piece of this age; hallmark remains crisp and legible
Value Estimate
$250 - $600 USD; value is driven by the 15K 'gold premium' and antique collector demand rather than just melt value.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft jewelry cloth only; avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the locket contains photos or organic stones like pearls; store in a soft pouch.
Similar Items
9K or 18K Victorian lockets; 15K gold brooches and 'good luck' charms from the same era
Interesting Facts
15K gold was introduced in Britain in 1854 and discontinued in 1932, making it highly collectible as its production was limited to a specific 78-year period.