Skip to product information
Antique 14k Victorian Mourning Locket/Book Chain
$4,275.00
Shipping calculated at checkout.
This locket may be the MVP of this collection...
I have yet to find one similar, making this piece all the more unique!
The chain features beautifully crafted mesh style links, with ornate floral decorative link at both ends of the box clasp, and at the top and bottom of the extender for the locket.
The locket itself has an intricately carved pattern on it's face outline in black enamel, and a rose in the center, outline in a light blue enamel.
I have styled this chain and locket with one or two very thin chains layered atop to test out a maximalist look -- however, it is a piece that needs no accompaniment as it's extraordinary and distinctive craftsmanship are apparent on any wearer!
Victorian mourning lockets became used as popular sentimental jewelry pieces, after Queen Victoria wore a locket containing hair and a photo of Prince Albert after his death in 1861. Her public display of grief and the symbolism of carrying a piece of lost loved one, popularized the wearing of mourning jewelry pieces. Early designs of mourning symbols featured somber motifs like skulls and coffins, but these evolved into softer motifs like angels, flowers, and weeping willows to name a few.
Details:
*Circa 1870, box clasp
☆ material: 14k gold & enamel (on locket face)
☆ weight: 42.3 g/27.19 dwt
☆ length: chain is 16.5" with 25. mm/2.5 cm drop to clasp, locket is 35 mm/3.5 cm
☆ width: chain is 5 mm/0.5 cm, locket is 30 mm/3 cm wide
☆ hallmarks: N/A, acid tested 14k
☆ maker's mark: N/A
Price: $4,275.00 USD
*Payment Plan Eligible*
💬 Contact us about this piece
CARE & MAINTENANCE
Care & Maintenance
Whether your piece is vintage, estate, or modern, a little care keeps it beautiful for generations.
Everyday Care
Put your jewelry on last, after lotions, perfume, and hairspray, and take it off before swimming, exercising, cleaning, or showering. Avoid harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and prolonged moisture.
Storage
Store each piece separately in a soft pouch or lined box, in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Diamonds can scratch other diamonds, gemstones, and metals, so keep them apart. Delicate or hollow pieces are best kept in a hard-sided box. Store silver in an anti-tarnish pouch.
Cleaning Gold, Platinum, Silver & Diamonds
A quick wipe with a soft, lint-free cloth every few wears keeps oils from building up. For a deeper clean:
1. Add a few drops of mild, unscented dish soap (we love unscented Dawn) to a bowl of warm water.
2. Soak for 20–30 minutes, or longer for heavier buildup.
3. Gently scrub with a soft baby toothbrush, paying attention to the back of the stone and around the prongs.
4. Rinse in clean water. Close the sink drain first!
5. Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth, then use compressed air or a hair dryer on the cool setting to remove moisture from settings.
6. Finish with a jewelry polishing cloth to restore the shine. Use it gently on plated pieces, and on vintage pieces where you want to keep the patina.
Special Gemstones
Pearls, emeralds, opals, turquoise, and other softer or porous stones should not be soaked. Wipe them with a soft, slightly damp cloth instead. Emeralds are often oil-treated and can be re-oiled professionally. Vintage pieces with closed-back settings should also not be soaked, since trapped water can damage the stone or foil behind it.
Professional Care
We recommend a professional cleaning and prong check every 6–12 months. It keeps stones secure and catches small issues early. Questions about caring for a specific piece? We're always happy to help.
SHIPPING & RETURNS
At Nektar Treasures Co., every piece is handled with care from the moment you order to the moment it arrives. Here is exactly what to expect.
Shipping
Fully insured, every order. Each piece ships fully insured for its full value, at no extra cost to you.
Tracking & signature confirmation. You'll receive tracking as soon as your order ships. An adult signature is required at delivery to ensure your piece arrives safely in your hands.
Processing time. Orders ship within [2-5] business days. Pieces that need sizing or other adjustments may take longer, and we'll let you know the timeline before we begin.
Discreet packaging. For your security, orders ship in plain outer packaging with no indication of the contents.
Gift packaging. Every piece arrives beautifully packaged and ready to give, or to keep for yourself.
Shipping locations. We currently ship within [the United States]. [For international inquiries, please contact us.]
YOUR ORDER INCLUDES
Fully Insured Shipping
Every piece ships fully insured from our hands to yours, with tracking and signature confirmation.
Free 30-Day Returns
We want you to love your piece. If it isn't quite right, return it within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. Pieces must be unworn and in original condition. See our return policy.
Gift Packaging
Each piece arrives beautifully packaged and ready to give, or to keep for yourself.