Bluebird - Vintage Gold Plated Enamel Bird & Foliage Locket Pendant & Chain (VP241)

Bluebird - Vintage Gold Plated Enamel Bird & Foliage Locket Pendant & Chain. This lovely locket is crafted from gold plate. The chain is crafted from 14K gold fill, hallmarked 1/20 14K. This vintage locket features enamel work, vintage styling, and quality craftsmanship. This locket exhibits a rich yellow gold colour, and beautiful blue, green and white enamelling. The scene on the locket showcases a sweet bluebird, on a tree branch, which has green leaves, and a white background. The enamel work and scenery is featured on both sides of the locket. The locket opens and shut closed well, and features an 'O' ring bale. The chain is an antique style belcher style, featuring a secure spring ring clasp in perfect working order. This pretty vintage locket would make a wonderful gift or addition to any vintage jewelry collection. 

History: Although the exact origins are unknown, the art of enameling has been practiced since ancient times. Excavations on Cyprus – in the Mediterranean – in the 1950s unearthed the earliest known examples of cloisonné enameled jewelry, dating from the 13th and 11th century BC.

The technology behind gold plated jewelry is credited to Italian chemist Luigi Brugnatelli. In 1805, he discovered the process for electroplating. It was quickly adopted for jewelry styles, with many Victorian jewelry pieces using gold plating.

During the mid to late Victorian period, gold filled jewelry was very prevalent. The scarcity of gold and the rise of commodities through the industrial revolution drove this demand. These pieces are so durable that the gold can last decades and decades depending on the wear. 

Measurements: Locket (Bale included) 25.00 mm x 18.00 mm    Chain 18" 

Weight: Locket & Chain 7.57 grams 

Condition: Excellent 

Origin: Pendant: Canada     Chain: Ireland 

Date: Circa 1980