When Queen Victoria was young, in her early 20s, this sentimental locket was made with a half-orb of pale amethyst held in a thick, swirly frame. On the reverse, a similar motif appears - tightly wound swirls of hair under glass. At the time, it was common to give gifts of one's own hair as a symbol of your affection or friendship. You could replace it easily if you like.
MATERIALS: 18k gold (tests), amethyst cabochon, glass lens, hairwork on ivory disc
AGE: c. 1840
CONDITION: Very good
SIZE: 1 1/8" length including the bale, 7/8" diameter, 18" chain