This sweet little antique basket charm dates to the Victorian era and is known as a mourning piece of jewellery. It was likely made in memory of someone who passed away so that they could be kept close to their nearest and dearest. The charm was likely commissioned to be made, possiblt as a one off piece, and is made of gold, with the basket being made of carefully and intricately of a woven lock of the loved one's hair. How sweet and such a beautiful, wearable piece of history!
The gold sections of the basket had such wonderful detail to them too. They are unhallmarked but test as at least 9ct gold.
The charm weighs approx 1.5g and measures approx 20.6mm tall (not including the jump ring) by approx 13.5mm wide by approx 11.7mm deep.
Condition - The charm is in good antique condition to say it is over 100 years old but does show signs of age and wear, including surface wear to the gold and the woven hair section. There are places where the hair has frayed slightly but it is still intact, please note that this charm will need to be worn with care to preseve it's current condition. The jump ring is a newer 9ct gold addition and is currently pushed closed. Please see photos.
*Please note the antique box pictured is not included in the sale but the ring will be shipped in a new presentation ring box and pouch*
.
Antique rare Victorian mourning basket charm, gold and woven hair
All items are carefully wrapped and packaged in a gift pouch. In the UK, we always post items via Royal Mail's Special Delivery service which is fully tracked and insured. Items sent outside of the UK are sent via Royal Mail's International signed for service, which offers insurance for up to £250 and tracking.