After handling thousands of 19th-century lockets, I can say with some certainty (though without a fully coherent explanation why) that this piece is American-made.
First, the construction—rustic and no-nonsense. No fiddly lenses on the interior frames, no overly delicate flourishes—just businesslike engraving and minimal twisted wirework. It’s built to last, not to fuss over.
Second, the technology. The locket holds gem tintypes, a photographic format that was particularly American. Unlike the more formal cabinet cards and cartes de visite favored in England, gem tintypes were mass-produced in U.S. studios, popularized during the Civil War, and widely used by working- and middle-class women who wanted keepsakes of their loved ones.
American women embraced gem tintypes for their intimacy, accessibility, and durability. Life in 19th-century America was neither easy nor straightforward, and your jewelry had to be just as tough as you were.
MATERIALS: 14k gold (tests), glass lenses, tintypes, new 14k gold chain
AGE: c. 1880
CONDITION: Very good - minor surface wear commensurate with age and use
SIZE: 1 1/2" length including the bale, 7/8" width, 18" chain