Cherished, Beloved.

This early 19th century (ca. 1820) locket is a love token, as expressed by the heart shape and the secret message conveyed by the first letter of each gemstone — Diamond, Emerald, Amethyst, and Ruby.

Acrostic jewelry was popular in Georgian and Victorian society. Legend has it that the first acrostic jewels were French — created by Jean-Baptiste Mellerio, jeweler to the French court. Even Emperor Napoleon commissioned acrostic jewels!

This treasure is beautifully made in two colors of gold, with cannetille and applied grape, leaf and vine details — symbols of fertility and abundance, suggesting this was a token of romantic or marital love. (Today, it would also be a wonderful gift to commemorate the birth of a child). The heart locket opens from a hinge at the top, revealing a deep compartment ready for a memento. The locket is suspended from three fine gold chains, connected to a twist finish loop.

A deeply sentimental jewel and very much of the period. These early acrostic jewels are getting increasingly scarce; even when examples can be found, they are more commonly with the message “Regard.” We have never found another with “Dear.”

Similar examples may be found in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum (https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O115228/locket-unknown/, https://collections.vam.ac.uk/item/O74186/locket-unknown/ ).

Necklace/chain shown is not included.

Unmarked.

15k gold, diamond, emerald, amethyst, and ruby.

Dimensions and weight:

●       43 mm long (including top loop)/ 18 mm long (heart only)

●       17 mm wide

● 9.5 mm deep

●     4.9 grams

Period: Georgian

*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present.

*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.