A 9ct gold locket in an unusual octagonal form — the centre set with white paste stones arranged around a red paste in the form of a flower. Paste stones — leaded glass cut to mimic precious stones — were used extensively in Edwardian jewellery, valued for their optical properties and the range of colours they could achieve. The combination of white and red in a flower arrangement gives this locket a decorative character distinct from plain metal pieces of the period.
The octagonal form itself is less common than the oval or heart shapes that dominate locket design of the period — a shape that gives the piece a more architectural, considered quality.
Space for two keepsakes within. Acrylic present on the left side, bezel insert present on the right.
Great condition overall. The front face is clean and crisp throughout. The back carries a couple of very minor surface dings — noted for accuracy — which are consistent with age and handling over more than a century and do not affect the appearance of the piece when worn.
Era: Edwardian, c.1901-1909
Hallmarks:
The front and back plates of the locket are 9ct gold — the faces you see when wearing and handling the piece. The setting, hinge mechanism, bezel and structural elements are silver — the internal framework that holds everything together
This was not a cost-cutting measure but a considered construction choice.
