Life in the mid-19th century was often stinky. This envelope-shaped locket was designed to hold not a photograph or lock of hair, but a scent. It may have been some combination of herbs and oils applied to a piece of wool or fabric, but it definitely was intended to shroud the wearer in an appealing smell that MIGHT overpower the odors of life before municipal sewers. It's amazing quality and very heavy.
MATERIALS: 14k gold (tests), seed pearls, black enamel, new 14k gold chain
AGE: c. 1840
CONDITION: Very good - minor surface wear commensurate with age and use
SIZE: 1 1/8" length including the bale, 5/8" width, 18" chain