Victorian French Jet and Pearl Lily of the Valley Locket Necklace

An impressive locket-back necklace dating from the late 19th century and featuring the popular Victorian motif of the lily of the valley flower.

Jet was popularised by Queen Victoria, who wore only black mourning jewellery following the death of her beloved husband Prince Albert in 1861. But jet was expensive and popular cheaper alternatives included gutta percha, vulcanite, bog oak and onyx, as well as "French jet" - the black glass of which this necklace is made.

Legend has it that the Lily of the Valley fell madly in love with a nightingale singing its heart out in a tree. The Lily was too shy to reveal her feelings and the nightingale left, unaware of her love. The grief-stricken lily refused to flower until her lost love returned. For the Victorians lily of the valley symbolised happiness reclaimed, lovers reunited, paradise found at last!

This beautiful shining necklace is in very good antique condition overall, with just a few small chips on some of the long faceted beads, see photos, but you have to look quite hard to find them.

The yellow gold clasp (probably later) is marked 9K. The lily of the valley shield is mounted with rose gold, likely 14-15 carat.

Size: The lily of the valley plaque measures 3.5 x 4.7cm. The large necklace beads are around 1cm wide.

Length: 17 inches (44cm) plus a further 2.5 inches (6cm) for the pendant drop.

Weight: 69.4g.

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