French Second Empire Turquoise Locket
third quarter 19th century, Paris, 18k yellow gold, the oval locket set with eleven turquoise cabochons within conforming rope-twist frames separated by rose-cut diamond quatrefoils, hinged and opening to a glazed locket frame, with diamond-set bail, presented on an English 14K yellow gold lorgnette chain with fancy openwork quatrefoils within navette links. locket h. 1-7/8" (2-1/4" with bail), w. 1-3/8", chain l. 45-1/4", total weight 90.4 grams

In overall good condition. Some oxidation to the locket cover, and some slight greening to about half the turquoise. A couple of very minor dents and some scuffing, all consistent with age and use. Locket hinge and closure secure and sturdy; some scratches around the locket thumbnail hole. Locket interiorintact with original frame. Marked with the French 18K "eagle's head" on the interior locket bezel, "G. Brevete" on the interior cover, and a rubbed maker's mark on the bail. Chain in good condition with a possible replacement spring ring. Partial-struck mark on jump ring; chain tests as 14K gold.