This Victorian locket pendant in Etruscan Revival is crafted in 14k yellow gold, weighs 49mm long, 28mm wide and 10mm deep. An authentic mid-Victorian antique work of art, this locket pendant of exquisite artisanship, most probably of English origin incorporates an ovular plaque decorated with delicately corded wire and granulation accents. A vertical row of 24 lustrous natural half-seed pearls graded 'cream' color measuring 1mm diameter is mounted in the center of the ovular panel, flanked by parallel rows of finely reeded yellow gold tubular profiles. The enchanting and obvious aged patina'd locket combined with the luster of natural pearls lends a warm color contrast to the aesthetic composition of this authentic antique pendant featuring twin frames and one with the original glass window, to secure a photograph, a lock of hair or a memento of sentimental significance. An oval bale of pronounced size surmounts the pendant connected by means of a sturdy ring, offering the versatility of wear on chains of varying widths.
Etruscans, whose origin still remains controversial, reigned over a vast region of Northern Italy in what we call Toscana today. Throughout their reign which encompassed several hundred years commencing circa late 8th century B.C., the Etruscan civilization remained vulnerable to the threats of the Greek and later the Roman Empire, with the latter causing the progressive downfall and disappearance of the Etruscan civilization, while inheriting numerous traits of their culture and artistic abilities in craftsmanship, acquired in turn from the Greek civilization. Ancient Etruscan jewelry was strongly inspired by the Greek Hellenistic styles characterized by intricate workmanship and immaculate detailing. Etruscan craftsmen adopted this structure with enthusiasm and most of the ornaments produced during that period, whether designed as chains of gold mesh or formed of variously shaped beads, incorporated specific Greek inspirations and influences. The intriguing and labor-intensive granulation technique consisting of tiny beads of gold soldered to a surface to create specific patterns, and the filigree openwork are amongst the highly appreciated techniques attributed to Etruscan artisanship.
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