Sapphire and Diamond Locket/Pendant
Lot Closed
June 3, 01:54 PM GMT
Estimate
30,000 - 40,000 GBP
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Read more.Lot Details
Description
Of large heart-shaped form, set at the front with a cushion-shaped sapphire within a pierced ground of delicate floral and foliate scrolls, the polished and engraved reverse of similar decoration.
- Measuring approximately 87 x 82mm
- Austro-Hungarian marks and French import marks
- Mounted in silver and gold
- Circa 1900
- Gross weight approximately 64.0 grams
Purchased by the current owner from Christies Geneva, "Magnificent Jewels", 1986, Lot 469
Irmgard V. Hauser Kochert, Kochert, Imperial Jewellers in Vienna, Jewellery Designs 1810-1940, pages 60, 266 and 291 for similar designs by Kochert.
The vogue for sentimental jewels, inspired by mid-18th and early-19th century designs, was well established by the 1880s and continued for the next three decades. Heart-shaped lockets were particularly fashionable and part of the repertoire of many late-19th century jewellers, including the Imperial Court Jeweller of Vienna, Kochert. The "language" of gems and flowers was utilised in these emblems of devotion. Here, in this exquisite example, the pairing of sapphire and diamond is symbolic of fidelity and eternal love.