This stunning and rare large double-sided locket is a glorious piece of French history from the Napoleon III era (mid 1800s). Featuring an exquisitely carved shell cameo image of Aphrodite (Venus) on one side, and a polished rock crystal which opens to reveal a large reliquary space on the other, this locket would have held beautiful secrets over the centuries within its ornate setting of 9k gold. The rock crystal side is elegant and simple, while the cameo side is a celebration of the goddess of love herself. Though very beautiful without anything inside, it can also hold the tiny treasures or photos dearest to your heart. 
Sold with a gold-plated chain for immediate wearability. 
 
This Roman goddess depicted with pearls in her hair is Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility (known in Greece as Aphrodite). Pearls were a symbol of purity and divine beauty in ancient Rome, emphasizing her role as the ideal of love and grace. The connection between Venus and her hair adorned with pearls pearls also highlights her association with the sea—pearls being a treasure of the ocean, which was linked to her mythical birth from the sea foam.
 
Sourced in France and curated by Paris-based Vivienne Birt for Chateau Love, this locket embodies the timeless sophistication and meticulous artistry that defines our carefully selected chateau-worthy collection of luxurious antique and vintage jewelry. 
 
MATERIALS:
Gold, Sardonyx Shell, Crystal 
 
AGE: 
Mid 1800s 
 
CONDITION: 
Good – surface wear commensurate with age and use 
 
SIZE:
HEIGHT: 4.5 cm without bail, 5.25 cm total
WIDTH: 3.25 cm
 
WEIGHT:
12.88 g
 
Please read descriptions and inspect photos carefully, paying careful attention to size and weight. Due to the age of antique and vintage jewelry, minor abrasions and wear of finishes is normal and appreciated. All items have been tested to be in working/usable condition, unless otherwise stated. Please take care to understand safe cleaning methods for each type of gem and metal. Jewelry pieces are carefully wrapped, ribboned and shipped in an elegant velvet box.