The textured locket was applied to the front with original multi-gem highlights set around a cultured pearl flowerhead that was suspended from a double chain and enclosed a turquoise drop.
Its excellent condition made it sought after and buyers in the room competed with commission bids before a private UK client secured the pendant at £2800.
A ruby intaglio ring carved with a crest was another well contested entry in this otherwise run-of-the-mill sale. Undated in the catalogue, Phillips’ specialist Susan Rumfitt thought the ring was possibly late 18th/early-19th century, and it surpassed £300-400 expectations, selling at £4000.
The sale was 61 per cent sold by lot and totalled £154,425.
Hearts and flowers
A continued demand for good quality Georgian and early Victorian jewellery at Phillips (15/10% buyer’s premium), Bayswater, 415-lot antique and modern jewellery auction, August 7, saw this gem set heart-shaped locket pendant, c.1830, steal the top slot.
