Essex Jewelry and Antiques

Superb c1850s Victorian 14k Gold 23" Watch Chain Necklace w GF/10k Locket

$2,672.00

Presented is a fantastic quality antique Victorian 14 karat yellow gold watch chain or necklace, with an attached small gold locket. This piece dates to around the 1840s-1870s, and was made in America. The chain is really the focal point of this listing, it is exceptionally well made by hand with very intricate woven double links, like a combination anchor/foxtail style chain. Truly a level of craftsmanship you just can't find today. This chain would originally have been for a pocket watch and perhaps other ornamental fobs, there is an old dog clip style clasp on one end but just a large round loop on the other, which currently has a little oval locket attached to it. A short ways from the loop at the end is a smaller connector link, with a small loop to attach a T-bar or whatever else you might like. Given the length of the chain, it is easily wearable today as a necklace. The locket is from the same time period as the chain, and is finely engraved front and back as well as decorated with black enamel. The clasp of the chain is stamped 14, for 14 karat gold.

We have tested all parts with nitric acid and guarantee that the chain is solid 14 karat gold. The locket is primarily gold-filled, however the front and back panels are 10 karat gold.

This piece is in great overall condition. The chain is pristine, no kinks or breaks. The locket snaps shut well. The black enamel on the locket has some small losses here and there, hard to notice without close inspection.

The chain measures about 23 1/4 inches long.
The locket measures about 1 1/4 inches long including the bail/loop at the top.

The total weight for the chain and locket is 30.1 grams.
The weight of just the chain, which is solid 14 karat gold, is approximately 26.8 grams. -jm