Material: Presumed silver (composition not yet tested)
Design: Etched floral motif on a brushed silver surface
Functionality: Opens to hold two small photos or mementos
Chain: Matching metal chain (simple link design)
Condition: Fair (visible surface wear and light tarnish)
For Sale: Yes
Visual & Construction Analysis:
1. Exterior Design:
The locket’s brushed finish and hand-engraved floral etching suggest mid-20th century craftsmanship, possibly from the 1940s–1960s.
The etched flower pattern is modest and delicate, popular in post-WWII American and European jewelry.
2. Interior:
Standard two-photo oval recess with retaining rims (one present, one missing or displaced).
No visible markings inside or outside (from images) indicating metal purity, maker’s marks, or hallmarks—though these could be faint or located on the chain clasp.
3. Chain:
Appears to be a simple midweight silver-tone chain, which may or may not be original to the locket.
Without clear hallmarks, the chain is assumed to be either silver-plated or lower-grade silver alloy.
Authentication Notes:
Silver Content: While the finish and tarnish patterns suggest sterling or coin silver, actual composition would need to be confirmed via:
Acid test or electronic silver tester
Jewelers’ mark identification (if present)
Hand Engraving: The floral design appears to be hand-etched rather than stamped or cast, indicating a degree of craftsmanship.
Condition Notes:
The locket is intact and functional, but has visible scratches and lacks one of the internal photo protectors or rims.
Hinge and clasp appear to function, but may be slightly loose with age.
Finish would benefit from a gentle polish using a non-abrasive silver cloth.
Estimated Market Value:
Context
Value Estimate (USD)
General vintage costume market
$25 – $40
If tested and verified as silver (800–925)
$40 – $75
If sterling with artisan or designer hallmark
$75 – $125
Insurance replacement (sterling)
~$100
Your locket falls into the low to mid-tier vintage silver jewelry market, with potential upside if silver content is confirmed or provenance is discovered.
Recommendations:
Authentication:
Take to a local jeweler for a silver content test (acid or electronic).
Check carefully for any hallmarks (often found along the locket rim or on the chain clasp).
Resale:
List on platforms like Etsy, Ruby Lane, or eBay under "vintage silver floral locket."
Include dimensions, material test results (if available), and close-up photos of both sides and interior.
Care:
Clean gently with a silver cloth; avoid chemical dips, especially near the hinge.
Store in a tarnish-resistant pouch if not being worn.
Conclusion:
This is a vintage silver-tone oval floral locket, likely dating to the mid-20th century. Its craftsmanship and condition suggest modest collectible value, with a possible boost if it tests as sterling silver. The locket’s sentimental appeal and wearability make it desirable in the vintage jewelry market.
Silver locket
Silver locket
Vintage Silver Oval Floral Locket Necklace
Item Overview:
Visual & Construction Analysis:
1. Exterior Design:
2. Interior:
3. Chain:
Authentication Notes:
Condition Notes:
Estimated Market Value:
Context
Value Estimate (USD)
General vintage costume market
$25 – $40
If tested and verified as silver (800–925)
$40 – $75
If sterling with artisan or designer hallmark
$75 – $125
Insurance replacement (sterling)
~$100
Your locket falls into the low to mid-tier vintage silver jewelry market, with potential upside if silver content is confirmed or provenance is discovered.
Recommendations:
Conclusion:
This is a vintage silver-tone oval floral locket, likely dating to the mid-20th century. Its craftsmanship and condition suggest modest collectible value, with a possible boost if it tests as sterling silver. The locket’s sentimental appeal and wearability make it desirable in the vintage jewelry market.