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Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century
Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century
Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century
Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century
Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century
Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century
Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century
Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century
Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century

Rare Antique Georgian Regency 15K Regard Acrostic Ruby Emerald Garnet Amethyst Diamond Purse Photo Locket, Early 19th Century

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Circa 1820s, this late Georgian/Regency Period 15K acrostic regard locket is the oldest yet most wonderful locket that I have come across thus far. This sentimental piece is often referred to as acrostic jewelry. This type of jewelry conveys secret messages through the spelling of a word by using the first letter of each gemstone. Acrostic jewelry gained popularity in Georgian England during the 1820s and 1830s and was in vogue throughout much of the Victorian era (1837-1901). The most common types used gems to spell out the words “regard,” “dearest,” and “adore,” among others. In this case, we have a Ruby, Emerald, Garnet, Amethyst, Ruby and Diamond which spells out "Regard." They were given to spouses, family members, and lovers.

Besides the noteworthy gems, the front of the locket also has a motifs of abundance and the reaping of life's bounty as symbolized by the raised grape vines, grapes, and leaves. The back of the locket is embellished with textured dots of raised gold in textured patterns.

What's more? The locket opens to reveal an interior compartment with the original intact crystal glass panel, which allows it to hold a memory, lock of hair, or photograph. The locket is suspended by three fine chains that are held together by a top "O" ring.

*To allow the locket to be worn as a pendant, I added another gold filled jump ring at the top (see the first image). *

This type of early locket is extremely rare and I have seen similar pieces in the market that is priced more than twice as much!

The listing is for the locket only. If you want a chain to go with the locket, I would be happy to provide you an 18-inch gold filled chain at no cost. The chain style varies depending on what is available in my inventory. Please send me a message before or at your check out.

*A video of this locket can be viewed on my Instagram (@memorystation2013) here. 

Measurements: 1 & 1/2" from top to bottom (not counting the gold filled jump ring). For the locket itself, 5/8" by 7/8". All measurements are approximate.

Metal: unmarked which is typical for Georgian jewelry but tested as 15K.

Locket weight: approx. 7.7 grams (without counting the gold filled jump ring)

Condition: very fine antique condition with age appropriate tarnish, scratches, and wear. All gems are present and appear to be original. The garnet stone has a small fissure but remains stable and secure within setting. It opens well and closes securely. Please refer to the pictures for the overall condition.

*Due to the value of this item the price reflects a domestic shipping cost of $32.00, which includes tracking and insurance. International shipping uses Fed Ex International Priority.