A late Victorian locket in 9ct gold and black enamel, decorated with a fern - a motif associated with secrecy, protection, and resilience.

In the 19th century, such lockets often held meaning beyond adornment: worn close to the heart, they served as small vessels of memory and belief. 

The fern motif belongs to the era’s fascination with nature’s hidden languages - botany as both science and magic - and the interplay between mourning and renewal. The contrast of gold and black enamel represents light within darkness.

Condition: There is a faint dink to the enamel at the lower left, barely perceptible except on close inspection. The locket presents very well overall. Please examine the pictures as they form part of the description.

Dimensions: Including the bail, it measures 3.5 x 2 cm (2.5 cm excluding the bail).

It comes on a 45cm 14 ct gold-filled chain.