Antique 9k Gold Garnet Engraved Shield Locket With Blonde Hair

Antique buttery 9k yellow gold Victorian era foiled garnet cabochon shield locket with ornately engraved scrollwork and beveled glass oval frame with woven blonde hair inside.

This locket was originally a padlock but at some point in its history it was converted into a standard pendant. The conversion was done well, with the padlock closure sealed with gold to match the hinge side and a large jump ring bail soldered at the top.

Of the three garnets, two have a paper/cardboard type of backing which holds foiling. The top right garnet is missing its foiling/backing and was glued back in at some point. As a result, the top right does protrude out further than the other garnets.

There is variation in the color of the garnets. In fact, the top two are almandine with more of a purplish-red hue, while the bottom is a red pyrope. All the garnets have minor blemishes typical of age and wear.

Aside from issues mentioned above, the locket is in good condition. The bezel could be polished if desired. The locket looks lovely as it is now, but could be a future project to convert back to a padlock.

The locket measures 1.1" x 1.05"
Frame approx. 16.5mm x 13.5mm
Weighs 7.6 grams (5.69 grams when bezel frame is removed)
No hallmarks or maker's marks present. Acid test confirms 9k-10k gold on the locket and bezel that holds the glass.