What is a locket pendant?

A locket pendant is a hollow piece of jewellery featuring a hinged cover that opens to reveal a small interior space. These compartments were traditionally used to store miniature portraits or locks of hair. In this selection, many examples combine this functional compartment with decorative enamel work, seed pearls and high-carat gold settings.

How do you wear a pendant brooch?

A pendant brooch includes both a secure pin mechanism on the reverse and a loop at the top for a chain. This dual design allows you to pin the jewel directly to a lapel or fabric. Alternatively, you can thread a chain through the suspension loop to wear the piece conventionally around the neck.

What is Victorian enamel?

Victorian enamel consists of powdered glass applied to a metal base and heated until it melts into a smooth, glossy coating. Jewellers utilised colours like deep blue, rich red, vivid green and solemn black. This technique created durable, vibrant backdrops that highlighted the lustre of set pearls and diamonds.

How can you identify an Austro-Hungarian piece?

Austro-Hungarian pieces frequently display exuberant multi-gem settings using silver gilt and elaborate wirework. They often incorporate colourful enamel alongside various stones like garnets and pearls. These elaborate necklaces and brooches reflect the distinctive Central European revival aesthetics of the nineteenth century.