This exceptional and stunning antique Victorian locket has been crafted in 18ct yellow gold in a heart shaped form.
The pendant displays a stunning feature old European pear cut diamond encircled by nine impressive oval cut synthetic rubies*.
The central design is further embellished with nine pairs of old European cut diamonds, graduating in size displayed alternately between the synthetic rubies.
The anterior face of the pendant is further accented with seventeen well-matched old European cut diamonds surrounding the central design.
The antique locket is fitted with an integrated ring loop attachment from which the pendant is suspended via an articulated fleur de lys shaped loop, accented with an additional six old European cut diamonds.
The sides of this exceptional antique locket are embellished with fine chased decorations.
The reverse of the locket retains the original heart shaped glass panel.
The hinged panel opens to one side, allowing a personal memento or photograph to be stored inside, visible through the bevelled glass panel.
The pendant is suspended from a hallmarked 46cm/18", 18ct yellow gold square belcher chain which secures to the reverse with a conventional lobster clasp.
This chain may be replaced with a chain of the same quality, in a style or length that meets your personal requirements.
This impressive Victorian locket is supplied with an IDGL diamond grading report certificate for the central diamond in addition to the IDGL diamond grading report card shown.
This locket has been independently tested using state of the art technology (Niton XL2 Analyzer) and verified as 18ct gold.
NOTE * In 1837 Gaudin made the first synthetic rubies by fusing potash alum at a high temperature with a little chromium as a pigment. Natural rubies and synthetic rubies look very similar on general observation. Synthetic rubies have a different internal colour banding and crystal structure which can only be identified under specific test conditions. It was common practice to incorporate synthetic rubies to impressive pieces of Victorian jewellery.
Contrary to what many people may think, the word "synthetic" does not mean fake when it comes to gemstones. In order for a material to be called "synthetic" it must have a natural counterpart. A synthetic ruby will have the same chemical composition as a natural ruby and therefore have an almost identical appearance to the naked eye.
The first ruby formed by melting two smaller rubies together was in 1817, and the first microscopic crystals created from alumina in a laboratory in 1837.
Common practice was to set and enhance fine quality antique jewellery with vibrant and colourful synthetic stones.
Images do not always reflect the true colour and brilliance of gemstones and diamonds. The video however provides a truer representation of the actual colour and showcases each stone.
Learn more on the different types of rubies
Date: Circa 1880
