Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Victorian-Style Enamel Cushion Locket
Pendant/Locket · Yellow Gold with high-copper traditional alloy giving a warm, brassy tone
Purity: 14K (58.5% pure gold alloy)
Type
Pendant/Locket
Purity
14K (58.5% pure gold alloy)
Gold Type
Yellow Gold with high-copper traditional alloy giving a warm, brassy tone
Weight
12.0 - 18.0 grams total weight including internal components
Description
A substantial high-relief gold locket featuring a deep cushion profile. The piece is adorned with a raised 'rope-and-star' beaded border and features a lower decorative plaque with blue enamel or gemstone accents. The construction is heavy and indicative of high-quality period jewelry designed to hold multiple photographs or a memento.
Key Features
Deep convex body, decorative star-set beaded rim, and dual-texture finish between the body and accents.
Color & Finish
Warm yellow gold with a matte/satin textured body and high-polish decorative accents; natural aged patina in crevices
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely 14K or 585 internal stamp; probable maker mark on the bail or interior rim
Dimensions Estimate
35mm length (including bail) x 28mm width x 12mm thickness
Gemstones & Inlays
Visible turquoise or blue enamel decorative inlay on the front/bottom face
Clasp & Closure
Hinged side-opening with a thumb-notch latch; heavy circular articulating bail
Chain & Links
Substantial attached bail for use with a heavy cable or curb link chain
Craftsmanship Details
Multi-part construction with hand-applied beaded wire and soldered hinge; high-quality die-struck components.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark location on interior frame, authentic color of 14K alloy, and period-correct articulation of the bail.
Origin & Maker
Likely European origin (French or English) given the ornate beaded edge work
Era & Period
Late Victorian to Early Edwardian Revival (Circa 1890-1915 Style)
Age Estimate
Estimated production circa 1900-1920
Cultural Significance
Represents the late 19th-century transition between mourning jewelry and decorative fashion mementos.
Condition Notes
Very Good; minor surface abrasions and pocket wear consistent with age; hinge appears tight and flush.
Value Estimate
$800 - $1,200 retail based on gold weight and historical design premium.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dry microfibre cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners due to enamel inlays and internal paper/photo fragility.
Similar Items
Modern 14K hollow lockets (thinner, less detail) or locket-style watches.
Interesting Facts
Lockets of this thickness were often called 'Sentimental Jewelry' and were sometimes used to carry small scents or hair mementos of loved ones.