Antique Blue Agate Locket

Robin’s-egg blue agate, framed in rose gold with a small shield at the center, makes this antique locket particularly charming. Its two-sided stone construction allows it to be worn and admired from either side, while the deep, lined compartment offers space for a small sentimental keepsake.

A lovely size, it can be worn on a delicate chain or a heavier chain with a bolt ring. I have added a generous 5mm 14k gold jump ring for this purpose; the original bail is also included. Eye-catching and full of presence, it would make a beautiful gift for someone special or an addition to your own collection.

The locket is a wonderful example of the Victorian “Macaroni” or “Scottish Pebble” style, likely made in England or Scotland between 1860 and 1880. Its reversible hardstone construction and intricate hinge are characteristic of the period’s interest in finely worked stone jewelry.

The deep, lined interior suggests a sentimental or mourning keepsake locket, intended to hold a braided lock of hair, a piece of fabric or ribbon, a dried flower, or a small folded note. Such a piece could have hung prominently from a substantial gold collar chain against the bodice of a Victorian gown.

Although agate is found in England and Scotland, this light blue stone may have been imported from Germany. The warm copper tones of the rose-gold frame beautifully complement the cool blue agate. The frame is believed to be 9k or 15k gold, both used in English Victorian jewelry.

Details

• Provenance: likely English or Scottish, High Victorian, circa 1860–1880
• Gemstone: blue agate, believed to be German in origin
• Gold content: believed to be 9k or 15k rose gold; added jump ring is 14k gold
• Weight: 10 grams
• Measurements: agate alone is just shy of 1 inch tall; approximately 1.5 inches tall including the decorative scrolling and bail; 3/4 inch wide and 3/8 inch thick
• Added jump ring: 5mm; original bail also included
• Condition: Excellent antique condition with no chips to the stone, a secure closure, and a lovely patina on the rose gold