Antique Victorian Gutta Percha Locket

Antique Gutta Percha Locket              Circa. 1880-1890    United Kingdom

Black gutta percha oval locket which opens on hinge to two photos  The front of the locket is a beautiful hand-carved profile of a lady, superbly executed.  No chips or imperfections, whatsoever    The front of the locket is matte, the back is polished   The only condition issue is a small chip on the side where the hinge is, and it is really not noticeable    

Gutta Percha is the sap extracted from trees in India   The hardened gutta percha was used extensively in jewelry production, boxes, etc. during the Victorian era.....in both the U.S. and Europe   

The locket measures 2 1/4 inches long      1 1/2 inches wide     3/4 inch deep with carving    Total weight is 21.4 g.    13.7 dwt   

We are presenting the locket on a pair of 17 inch leather straps; to be tied in the back

in excellent condition