DATE: Victorian, c.1880

Cool antique Mizpah locket dating from the late Victorian period, circa 1880. Crafted in 15 karat gold with large embossed lettering on both the back and front, and finished with hand-chased textured detailing behind the words. The triangle motifs above and below the words have tiny holes which I first thought were patches of black enamel - a clever touch.

Hebrew for "watchtower", the mizpah sentiment has come to connote an emotional bond between two people who have become separated - either by distance or by death. Indeed, the word is often used as the name for a cemetery, often seen on headstones and other memorials.

MEASUREMENTS 

3.3 x 2.5 x 1.1cm (including bail)

WEIGHT 

8.3g

MARKS 

No marks present, tests as 15 karat gold

CONDITION 

Very good with fine antique patina. Original fittings present inside as well as one pane of glass