18K & Silver French Victorian Diamond, Ruby & Rock Crystal Monogram IR/RI Locket

A breathtaking French Victorian c.1870-1890 masterpiece, featuring a large rock crystal locket, rose cut diamond & ruby set monogram "IR/RI", crafted meticulously in 18k gold & silver, and hallmarked with the French owl hallmark.

It is surreal in many ways, as the piece immediately captures your eyes from afar.

The entire locket is not made in glass, but instead, faceted rock crystal quartz thats weighs an impressive approx. 240ct. It is rare to see a Victorian rock crystal quartz piece in a locket form, as a majority of the faceted versions are in pendant form. Secondly, it is also very rare to see them with a gemstone set monogram, as the more popular motifs are bugs, stars and crosses that are often set with faceted rock crystal quartz pendants.

This was no doubt a custom commissioned piece for an important person in the Victorian era. The piece is in excellent condition with no nicks or marks to the piece, and it is quite a sight to behold.

The locket is surrounded by a halo of alternating rubies approx. 1.12ct and diamonds approx. 0.80ct by spread, which matches the monogram. On the reverse, it has a concealed oval frame that can be removed to access the locket compartment. The removable oval frame on the back is set with glass, and the entire front faceted portion is rock crystal quartz.

It measures 33.5mm x 50mm with bail, 33.5mm x 40mm without bail, and weighs 23.16 grams.

It is certainly heirloom worthy and would make an important addition to any collection, as such treasures are often far and few between.

Era - Victorian c.1870-1890
Materials - 18k gold and silver / Rose Cut Diamond / Ruby / Rock Crystal
Carat Weight - Diamond: 0.80ct by spread / Ruby: 1.12ct/ Total weight: 1.92ctw
Measurements - 33.5mm x 50mm with bail, 33.5mm x 40mm without bail