A striking 18ct gold oval locket that was made in 1863 judging by the inscription inside that details the life dates of George Ross. There is also a photograph of him inside. The outside has been enamelled in black with floral motifs. It is beautifully made and a good flat look.}

A pretty silver heart locket with three flowers engraved on the front. It would be a lovely gift.}

A fabulous 18ct gold round locket that was made in France circa 1900-1910. The subject is "Les Fleurs du Mai" The may flowers. It is written on the front. A pretty girl with her hair in a chignon and diamond set flowers around her gazes out of the locket. She is surrounded by a ring of rose diamonds. There are also rose diamonds set in to the bale. It is signed by L Janvier who was a well known sculptor and a designer of medals and jewellery.}

An unusual hammered effect heart shaped locket that was made circa 1900-1910. it has been set with a twenty point diamond in the centre. Inside is a compartment for a photograph. It is a very chic look and would look great worn on a medium length gold chain.}

A very pretty 18ct gold small locket that opens up from the bottom to reveal a glazed locket. It has been engraved on both sides. The front has been set with four natural split pearls and the reverse has a plain shield that can be engraved with initials if wanted. It is most likely French and was made circa 1880.}

An unusual 18ct gold locket that was made circa 1900-1910. An eagle holding a diamond with a ruby set neck appears over the top of the locket. Below it is a diamond set twig. Above the locket are tendrils. Inside is a compartment for a photograph. It is an extraordinary piece of jewellery that you certainly will not see elsewhere!}

This is a really pretty round locket with a bow on the top. It is 9ct back and front which means that both sides are 9ct gold and the inner rims and hinges are base metal. It has a lovely engraved decoration of a basket of roses on one side and a garland of roses on the other. Inside are two compartments for photographs. It has a sweet meaning of a gift of love to one that you adore and will last longer than a bunch of roses!}

An unusual 15ct gold pendant set with a large cabochon garnet that has been foiled at the back to give it extra luminescence. There is also a small round locket set in to the reverse. It was made circa 1880. Garnet is the birthstone for January and the stone that celebrates the 2nd anniversary of marriage. It would look amazing worn on a medium length chain.}

A pretty heart shaped locket that was made circa 1910. It has been engraved with leaves and scrolls on both sides. It is 9ct back and front which means that either side is 9ct gold and the inner rims and hinges are base metal. Inside are two compartments for photographs. The top of the locket has an ornate motif and there is a plain shield shaped area that could be engraved with initials if wanted.}

A pretty oval silver locket that was made in the 1960s. A sweet gift for someone that you care for.}

An unusual 18ct gold pear shaped locket that was made circa 1860 in France. It has been enamelled in deep blue enamel and has a splayed leaf design set with graded rose diamonds. It opens to reveal a hinged glazed locket.The reverse has been engraved with stylised Fleur de Lis. It is a beautiful piece of jewellery that looks wonderful when worn on a medium length chain.}

A stylish 15ct gold oval shaped locket that was made circa 1860-1880. The locket has been applied on both sides with gold work which is known as the “Etruscan style” as the design was taken from earlier pieces made in Italy in the Etruscan period from the 8th century BC to 2nd century BC. It is a remarkably modern look considering it is over 140 years old!}

A pretty locket that was made in the early 1900s. It is 9ct back and front which means that both sides are 9ct gold but the hinges and inner rims are metal. It has been engraved on both sides with a swallow in flight and rose branches. The swallow was considered daring, risk-seeking, and a symbol of change for good in the future. It also meant “Everlasting love” and “loyalty” as swallows mate for life. The meaning is further emphasised by the roses representing "True love".}

A decorative round locket with engraved foliate detail that was made circa 1900-1915. It can take two photographs inside. It has the original faceted gold loop for a chain to go through.}

A pretty and slim octagonal shaped locket that opens to reveal a locket compartment on one side. It was made in Birmingham in 1960. It has been engraved on the front with leaves and flowers.  It is an ideal piece of jewellery to wear on a daily basis.}

An unusual globe shaped locket that was made circa 1880-1900. It is 9ct gold and has two domed rock crystal pieces that magnify whatever is put inside. You can see from the photographs how it magnifies the original gentleman inside. Off course you can change this photograph and put in your own!}

A very unusual pendant in the shape of a hazelnut. It was made in France circa 1840 and opens via a hidden hinge to reveal a pierced grill. This piece is known as a vinaigrette. Popular during the Georgian & Victorian eras, vinaigrettes are small-hinged boxes with an interior grill designed to house a scented cloth or sponge. This piece would have been used by a young lady to shield herself from foul odours in the streets.}

An unusual rectangular shaped locket that opens to reveal a plaited lock of hair. It was made circa 1800-1820 when jewels that sent secret coded messages were popular. This locket spells "Love".  Each first letter of each stone is the key.  Lapis Lazuli, Opal, Vermeil Garnet & Emerald . It would have been worn to remember someone whose lock of hair it contains. Around the edge is a snake design that further accentuates the message. The snake had become symbolic of the re-birth of the deceased into the next, spiritual life.}

A pretty 15ct gold heart locket that was made circa 1900-1910. It has been pave set with natural split pearls and a central diamond. It opens to reveal two compartments for photographs. It would be a lovely gift to someone you care for.}

An unusual 14ct gold square locket with a bee on the front that was made circa 1910 possibly in Austria.  The bee's wings are yellow gold and there is a ruby and a diamond set in to the body. It would look wonderful worn on a mid length chain.}

A highly detailed silver locket that was made in the 1880s. It has been applied with rose gold and yellow gold in a flower basket and flower spray design. This gold overlay technique was peculiar to England and is highly sought after as it is not only hard to reproduce but looks great when worn.}

An unusual 18ct gold book shaped pendant that hinges opens to reveal three viewing holes. Originally you would have looked through these tiny holes and would have seen some miniature photographs as there are three holes on the spine of the book as well. Unfortunately there are no photographs there now but it is still a fascinating survival from the 1880s. It has been enamelled with ivy leaves on one side and a monogram on the other.  The photos would most likely have been of family members. It has been enamelled with ivy leaves on one side and a monogram on the other. I have included here an article from Wikpedia which explains more about the history of the Stanhope. Stanhopes  are optical devices that enable the viewing of microphotographs without using a microscope. They were invented by Rene Dagron in 1857. Dagron bypassed the need for an expensive microscope to view the microscopic photographs by attaching the microphotograph at the end of a modified Stanhope lens. He called the devices bijoux photo-microscopiques or microscopic photo-jewelry. In 1862, Dagron displayed the devices at the Exhibition in London, where he got an "Honourable Mention" and presented them to Queen Victoria. In 1864 Dagron became famous when he produced a stanhope optical viewer which enabled the viewing of a microphotograph 1 square millimetre (0.0016 sq in), (equivalent in size to the head of a pin), that included the portraits of 450 people.}

This is quite a large heart shaped locket with a decorative top that opens to reveal two compartments for photographs. It is 9ct back and front which means that the inner rims are silver and the back and front of the locket are 9ct gold. In the centre is a star motif set with red and white paste. The literal meaning is that “You are an eternal star”. It was made circa 1900-1915 and would make a wonderful gift to a loved one.}

An unusual 9ct gold locket that opens two ways. It hinges open at the front then the locket inside hinges open again to reveal another compartment for a photograph. There are four compartments so it would be ideal for family photographs. The front has enamelled roses and a "Forget me Not" in the centre set with natural split pearls. This sent a message to the wearer. The reverse has been engraved in detail with a floriate motif.}

A good quality 18ct gold oval locket with detailed bright cut engraving on both sides. It is in it's original case and was made circa 1880. Inside is a compartment for a photograph. This locket would look wonderful worn on a mid length gold chain.}

An impressive silver oval locket that was made circa 1880. It is engraved with a garter or buckle. The buckle is not only a decorative border, but is in fact wrapping itself around the locket in an eternal loop that forever holds tight. It would have been a gift of love with photograph sections inside for the couple.}

This is quite a large heart shoped 9ct gold locket with a decorative top that was made circa 1900-1910. It has been set with a rose diamond representing "Eternal love". Inside is a compartment for a photograph. It is very pretty and makes a statement when worn.}

A fat 15ct gold oval locket that was made circa 1860-1880. It has been set with two oval cabochon cut sardonyx. The clever bit was to find a stone with an oval white band within it and cut it so that you got the white band in just the right position. Within are two compartments for photographs. It also has a gold clasp so that you can easily attach it to a chain.}

A lovely 10ct gold heart shaped locket that opens to reveal two compartments for photographs. It has a shamrock design set with two square cut emeralds and a pear shaped emerald. A shamrock is a young clover sprig, used as a symbol of Ireland. Saint Patrick, Ireland's patron saint, is said to have used it as a metaphor for the Christian Holy Trinity. So this locket which is also set with the emeralds for "The emerald Isle" as Ireland is often known, would be a perfect gift for an Irish lass.}

A very unusual 15ct gold locket that opens to reveal seven compartments that can hold twelve photographs in total. On the front is a dove of peace. The dove has a small cabochon ruby in it's eye and the olive branch is set with three natural pearls. The use of a dove and olive branch as a symbol of peace originated with the early Christians, who portrayed the act of baptism accompanied by a dove holding an olive branch in its beak. So what a wonderful meaning and this locket would be ideal for holding photographs of your children.}

An unusual Victorian silver locket which has a slightly concave surface with two buckles on one side and plain on the other. It can be worn today and would certainly be noticed as it is very striking.}

A good Victorian locket that was Assayed in Birmingham in 1882. It has a buckle design to signify safety, security, and protection. It would have been given as a token of love which bound two people together. Inside are two compartments for photographs.}

A pretty heart shaped locket that opens to reveal two sections for photographs. It has a scroll motif and a plain part that can be engraved if wanted. It is likely made by Smith, Ewen & Stylic Ltd of Birmingham. They had a shop between 1946 and 1971. Ideal as a present.}

A lovely Victorian silver locket engraved with a basket of flowers. The flowers are overlaid with rose gold and the leaves are yellow gold. The outside edge is a bobble design which you find a lot in the Victorian period.}

A beautiful 15ct gold heart shaped pendant that was made circa 1900-1910. It has been enamelled in green enamel with a white enamel border, and has a central flower set with natural split pearls. The top loop also has small split pearls. On the reverse is a locket section for a photograph. It is in lovely condition and looks as good today as it did all those years ago.}

An unusual 15ct gold oval locket which is all about being Irish. There is the traditional Irish harp set with three emeralds representing the "Emerald Isle" The harp is surrounded by ten shamrocks in different colour green gold for luck. The reverse is richly engraved with three leaves above a ribbon that could be engraved with initials if wanted. Inside are two compartments for photographs. This would be a perfect gift for an Irish gal.}

A lovely round locket that was made circa 1910. It has been engraved with a leaf and scroll motif on the reverse. On the front is a plain heart shaped design with the same leaf and scroll motif around it. It is 9ct back and front which means that the inner frames and hinges are metal for strength. Inside there are two frames that come out so that you can insert photographs then pop them back in to hold them.}

A lovely 15ct gold oval locket that was made circa 1880. It has a garter design on the front. The garter symbolised chastity and virtue. It opens to reveal two compartments. One side has a coloured photograph of a very Victorian looking gentleman with full beard. This can be removed if wanted!}

This is an unusual 14ct gold heart shaped locket because it has been studded or pave set with small natural split pearls on both sides. It opens to reveal two areas for photographs. It was made in America circa 1900-1915.}

An unusual Victorian silver locket that was made circa 1880. The raised decoration is of vine leaves and bunches of grapes. In the centre are ivy leaves that literally mean "Cling to me" Surely it was a wedding present for wine and merriment and enduring love!}

A lovely 15ct gold locket that is plain on both sides. Inside there are two compartments for photographs. It was made circa 1910. It looks very good when worn on a mid length chain.}

A stylish 15ct gold oval locket that was made circa 1840-1860. It has been engraved on both sides with scrolls and interlocking motifs. It also opens on both sides to reveal a daguerrotype photograph of a gentleman on one side and a locket section on the other. It is neat and easy to wear.}

An 18ct gold pendant set with an oval banded onyx and a saltire cross set with natural split pearls. Onyx aids the development of emotional and physical strength and stamina, especially when support is needed during times of stress, confusion or grief. Pearls are for tears. A saltire, also called Saint Andrew's Cross or the crux decussata, is a heraldic symbol in the form of a diagonal cross, like the shape of the letter X in Roman type. The word comes from the Middle French sautoir, possibly owing to the shape of the triangular areas in the design. This was a mourning pendant. It has the photograph of a gentleman in the locket on the reverse.}

A pretty oval silver locket with two compartments inside for photographs that was made in the 1960s. It has been engraved with flowers on one side. It would make a sweet gift.}

A stunning 15ct gold locket that was made circa 1860-1880. Inside are two compartments for photographs. The outside has been applied with an acorn and leaf motif. The oak branch is a symbol of strength and independence. This locket is quintessentially English and is in amazing condition.}

A neat round silver locket with two compartments inside for photographs. The outside has been engraved with a flower. It was made in Birmingham in 1976. An ideal gift.}

A very good quality 15ct gold heart locket that was made circa 1900-1910. It has been set with a diamond, which is a symbol of love. Inside is a locket compartment for a photograph.}

A pretty oval locket that was made circa 1900-1910. It is 9ct back and front which means that the hinges and inner rims are metal. The other parts are 9ct gold. It has a bow motif that literally means "Tying the knot". It is set with a garnet and natural split pearls. It would be a wonderful marriage gift.}

A good looking oval silver locket with an engraved garter motif that was made circa 1880-1900. The garter symbolised chastity and virtue.}

A smart silver oval locket that was made circa 1880-1900. It has an engraved interwoven design with flower above and below. These lockets look good when worn on mid length chains.}

A lovely oval silver locket that was made in the 1960s. It has engraved leaf design on both sides.}

A pretty silver oval locket that has been partially engraved on one side. It was made in the 1970s.}

A pretty oval silver locket which has been hand painted in enamel with flowers in delicate pink, violet, green and white shades. Under the enamel the silver has been engine turned engraved which shows through the translucent white enamel and adds extra detail. It was made circa 1910-1920.}

A pretty 9ct gold oval locket with an engraved design around the edge. It is a slim design and very neat.}

An attractive 14ct gold round locket that was made circa 1920. It has a decorated band of white and pale blue enamel with three diamonds in a suspended design in the middle. There are two sections inside for photographs.}

A stunning silver gilt oval locket with applied turquoise blue enamel. The design is floral with natural split pearls. Inside are two glazed sections for photographs. It was made circa 1860-1880. There are a pair of these lockets at £975 each.}

A most unusual shaped silver locket. It has two colour gold overlay. The style was the "Aesthetic" or "Japonesqe" style which was prevalent in the 1880s. This period was inspired by simple naturalistic asymmetrical themes like birds, leaves and sometimes Japanese-style elements like bamboo. It was a result of both the Japanese trade relations that had opened during the Victorian mid-century period and a corresponding trend toward a simpler more refined sense of design. This locket is a good example.}

A lovely 15ct gold oval locket that was made circa 1880. It has two compartments inside for photographs. It is set with twelve emeralds with an inner band of natural split pearls. Emeralds are the sacred stones of the goddess Venus. They were thought to preserve love. Pearls are the symbols of purity and innocence. This locket would have definitely been a gift from an admirer.}

A very well made Victorian silver locket with two colour red and yellow gold overlay in a leaf and flower pattern with a central stem of leaves. This technique was practiced in Birmingham circa 1860-1890 and is unique to English jewellery.}

A smart silver oval shaped locket that was made circa 1880. It can be worn on a long silver chain which looks fantastic.}