Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
A classic late-19th-century round locket featuring a hand-engraved 'North Star' and a pavé-set crescent moon. The piece is crafted in gold-filled metal, a durable Victorian technique that bonded thick sheets of gold to a brass core, designed to last a lifetime.
Story
Victorian 'honeymoon' jewelry used the moon and star to say 'I love you to the moon and back' long before the phrase was a cliché. The crescent moon specifically symbolized the feminine 'moon goddess' and the changing phases of a new life together.
Maker / Origin
While often unsigned, these high-quality lockets were the pride of the jewelry hubs in Attleboro, MA, and Providence, RI. These factories pioneered the 'gold-filled' process, making fine-looking sentimental jewelry accessible to the growing middle class during the Industrial Revolution.
Condition & Value
The locket shows beautiful 'bloomed' gold color with minimal 'brassing' (wear-through to the base metal). The paste stones have darkened slightly, which is a common and often desired sign of age in Victorian jewelry. Condition is excellent for its age. Excellent condition commands a premium.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.