WWII era necklace?

Item: Antique Ornate Locket Necklace
Category: Jewelry and Gemstones
Medium: Unknown metal, likely brass or gold-plated base metal
Condition: Good
Size: Approximately 12 inches
For Sale: No

Description & Characteristics

This is a vintage locket necklace featuring an intricately designed oval-shaped pendant with a raised heraldic crestadorned with blue and white enamel. The locket is attached to a wide-link, textured metal chain. The back of the locket is plain, and when opened, it reveals two black-and-white photographs, likely family keepsakes from the mid-20th century.

Historical Context & Significance

• The design and craftsmanship suggest that this piece was likely made between the late 19th century and early 20th century.
• The heraldic crest may indicate European influence, possibly French, Italian, or English in origin. Enamel detailing was commonly used in Victorian and Edwardian jewelry (late 1800s–early 1900s).
• The expandable-style chain is characteristic of 1930s-1950s jewelry, meaning the locket may have been passed down through multiple generations.
• Given that the locket contains family photographs from the 1950s, it suggests the piece was actively used and treasured at least until that time.
• These lockets were often used as mourning jewelry, love tokens, or family heirlooms.

Metal Composition & Craftsmanship

• Based on patina and wear, this is not solid gold, but possibly brass, gold-filled, or gold-plated.
• The detailed metalwork indicates handcrafted or high-quality cast production, possibly from a European or American artisan jeweler.

Market Value & Appraisal

The sentimental value of this item is priceless as a family heirloom. In terms of collectible market value, factors influencing its price include:

• Antique status (100+ years old, likely early 1900s)
• Enamel heraldic crest (unique and desirable for collectors)
• Condition (shows wear but maintains integrity and function)
• Provenance (family history adds depth but does not necessarily impact market value)

Estimated Value Range:

• $150 - $400 if unmarked and made from a base metal (brass or plated).
• $500 - $1,000 if confirmed to be gold-filled or containing higher-quality materials.
• $1,500+ if it is an identified Victorian, Edwardian, or Art Nouveau piece with historical significance.

Recommendation

Since the piece holds great sentimental value, I recommend the following:

1. Metal Testing – Have a jeweler or antique expert test for gold or precious metal content.
2. Historical Research – If possible, trace the family history of the piece and its heraldic crest to better understand its origin.
3. Conservation – Store it in a jewelry box away from moisture to preserve its integrity.
4. Professional Appraisal – If you wish to formally document its value for insurance purposes, an appraisal from an antique jewelry specialist is recommended.

Conclusion

This is a beautiful, historically significant family heirloom likely from the early 20th century. If you're looking to pass it down through generations, proper storage and documentation will help preserve its story for future family members.