Antique Australian Gold Locket by Willis, Melbourne, circa 1900

Antique Australian Gold Locket by Willis, Melbourne, circa 1900

The circular plain polished locket is of good size, measuring almost 5cm in diameter. The locket is hand engraved on the front with the scrolling initials M.H. The locket opens, and inside is a leather insert to one compartment and a pierce of parchment to the other. Both compartments would originally have been glazed and probably contained photographs or small mementos of a lovely one. (And could be again!)

Metal: 9ct rose gold.

Diameter: 4.5cm.

Weight 13.5 grams.

Marks: Three part mark, unicorn, 9ct, W

Willis & Sons, a Melbourne based firm established in 1858 were originally importers and wholesalers. By 1908, Willis & Sons were located at 350–356 Little Collins Street. After 50 years in the jewellery business, they were one of Australia’s most prolific jewellery manufacturers. “Their gold jewellery was produced for a substantial middle-class market... and lockets were one of the many items they produced. Many gold lockets were made, ranging from plain circular photo-lockets to more elaborate shield and heart-shaped items’ (Cavil Cocks & Grace, Australian Jewellers, Gold & Silversmiths, Makers & Marks)

Condition: Fair vintage or age appropriate condition, with some small dents front and back, and slight scuff marks.

SEDGWICKS pride ourselves on sourcing and selling Antique & Estate Jewellery that is of fine quality and in great condition.

Antique & Estate Jewellery is seldom in perfect or ‘new’ condition as age is inherent for it to be classified as such. Nearly all items we sell are ‘Second-hand’ and will almost certainly show some signs of wear. These may include faint scuffmarks and small dents, even very minor repairs. These are considered acceptable when dealing with objects that have lived a full life. Any imperfections or minor damage will be listed in the description and visible in the photo.

We do ask that you carefully view the photographs provided and note we are happy to supply more images or fuller description if requested.

To help you make your assessment, many higher value items are accompanied by an Independent Valuation for Retail or Insurance

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