Victorian Tiny Horseshoe Locket with Blue Enamel

An absolutely rare cutie of a piece! A few aspects of this pendant has just stolen my heart: the royal blue enamel in excellent condition, horseshoe with 7 studs for good luck, the hand-engraved swirl design quintessential to Georgian to early Victorian pieces, and the original lock of hair under glass in the back. This was not a mourning piece, but a friendship piece or token of love given from one to another. The locket is oriented to be worn against to skin, as a sign of closeness to the giver. It is such a rare little treasure that both contain meaning of good fortune and great affection.
All that history, packed in a tiny little memento from c.1860!

Specifications

Please doublecheck dimensions, as this is a tiny piece!

Unmarked, acid test passes 14k gold. Due to historic origin of the piece (England), it is most likely to be 15k gold.

Pendant measures 13mm x 11mm x 5mm (not including bail)

The chain pictured is available for purchase in the drop-down menu. It is a fantastic 9ct foxtail chain c.1900 that has the yellow gold color of higher karat. Measures 16in in length. Pairs beautifully together, and time-appropriate for the pendant.

Care

Due to the hairwork inside the glass locket and the condition of the bail (see condition section below), the pendant does need to be worn with care. And please avoid moisture and water at all time!

Condition

In very good antique condition. This is a remarkably well preserved little pendant. The enamel and hand-engraved pattern are in excellent condition with slight abrasion consistent with age. The locket is original and in excellent condition, only that the interior has developed a foggy look overtime but is to be expected after 160 years. The bail have worn thin overtime (please see pictures), which is a common issue with Victorian era pieces, so it should be worn with care. It is however a fixable issue in the future by a jeweller who has access to laser-welding technology to replace the bail eventually. The 9ct wheat chain is in excellent condition with little wear. Please note that this is a pre-owned antique piece and is therefore not in mint condition. Sold as-is.