Victorian Sterling Silver Locket Book Chain Collar, Hand-Engraved, Floral Motifs, Birmingham Hallmark, 20" L
one of a kind
A gorgeous example of a Victorian sterling silver locket book chain collar from Birmingham, England. Featuring a fancy multi-link book chain with a bolt ring and large hinged clasp adorned with a gothic hand-engraved locket.
The locket hangs from a graduated silver bail and features raised embellishments floral motifs, and a robust stamped star trim. The back of the locket is un-decorated besides the trim and makers marks. The inner locket shows the reverse sides of the case's design and has notable silver tarnishing/wear. There are no picture frame inserts or glass except for one oval-shaped plastic cover, but it could be restored or used to store small artifacts.
The book chain is quite unique and features an alternating pattern of wide polished links and cutout scalloped links with an large hinged ring clasp loops through the end links (the clasp is not actually attached and can be removed). Often times, book chains this old have some flattened or damaged links, but this one has remained in remarkable condition.
The combination of marks on the back of the case are designed to identify the origin and age of each piece, but unfortunately some of them have been worn beyond recognition. There is a distinguishable 'Sterling Birmingham' (anchor) hallmark and a partial maker's mark that looks like 'JD', but the silver quality marker and date letters are illegible so we cannot confirm it's exact age or silver composition. Based on comparable pieces we believe this to be a late Victorian book chain from the 1890's.
This piece was obviously well cared for by its previous owners and is in great condition for its age with only a few minuscule dings and scratches.There is some notable tarnishing and wear to portions of the silver, more so on the locket than the chain, but nothing that affects its wearability or overall aesthetic.
**This listing contains photographs of the actual item you will receive. Please look closely at the pictures as they are part of the product description. Every piece is cleaned, polished, examined, and described to the best of our ability and we encourage you to reach out with any questions.**
Condition: Antique; good
Book chain: 20" L x 5/8" W
Pendant height (including bail): 2 1/2"
Locket: 2" L x 1 5/8" W x 7/16" D
Weight: 51.4 grams
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We do accept returns within 30 days of delivery however we do charge either a 10% or $35 restocking fee, whichever is lower.
This listing contains photographs of the actual item you will recieve. Please look closely at the pictures. Every piece is cleaned, polished, examind, and described to the best of our ability. We acid test gold and silver, we do not test gemstones. Gemstones are identified to the best of our ability, unless the piece was appraised, which will be noted in the listing. We encourage you to reach out with any questions.
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Swim, shower, and live your life in our solid gold and silver vintage jewelry. We stand behind the quality of every piece we sell, so you can wear your favorites with confidence and joy, knowing your product is safe from tarnishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Yes, we acid test all solid gold and sterling silver to ensure its authenticity. We are not gemologists and access gemstones to the best of our ability. Occasionally, we will get our pieces appraised, which will be noted in the listing.
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Of course! All sterling silver and solid gold jewelry can be polished before shipping on request. Since all of our jewelry is vintage, we leave the option of tarnished or sparkling up to you.
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We do accept returns within 30 days of delivery however we do charge either a 10% or $35 restocking fee, whichever is lower.
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Great question! We source our jewelry direct from people looking to sell. We buy beautiful pieces from around Philadelphia and surrounding states. If you're interested in selling, visit our selling side here.
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