How were these portrait miniatures worn?

Owners typically wore them suspended from ribbons or chains around the neck as pendants, or pinned directly to garments as brooches. Many pieces feature dual fittings that allowed the wearer to switch between hanging and pinning. This versatility made them fashionable accessories for displaying family members, romantic partners, or admired public figures. The inclusion of secure glass protected the delicate paintwork during daily wear.

How do I identify a Georgian piece?

Georgian examples often display specific clothing styles, powdered wigs, and painting characteristics associated with the eighteenth century. Frames from this era frequently utilise higher karat golds or pinchbeck with simple, elegant oval profiles. Signatures or attributions to recorded artists like George Engleheart or William Naish help confirm the period. The use of ivory or vellum as a painting substrate is also common in these earlier works.

Can I store hair inside the locket?

Many of these frames incorporate locket backs specifically designed to hold braided hair or memorial mementos behind glass. This practice was widespread during the Georgian and Victorian eras for sentimental reasons. Opening these compartments requires care to avoid damaging the antique gold hinges and bezels. Buyers should inspect the backing to see if the original glass and compartment lining remain intact.