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- Antique American Art Nouveau Bearded Iris Large Gold Locket
Antique American Art Nouveau Bearded Iris Large Gold Locket
Antique American Art Nouveau Bearded Iris Large Gold Locket
Sculptural, Substantial. Distinctly American Art Nouveau.
This is a striking American Art Nouveau locket, likely made in Newark, New Jersey, circa 1900—when the city was a major center of fine jewelry production.
Large and substantial, this piece stands out for both its scale and preservation, with a rich original bloomed finish and a beautifully sculpted bearded iris in high relief. The flower is rendered in flowing, textural detail characteristic of the Art Nouveau period, where natural forms were translated into sinuous, expressive design. It has a particularly satisfying weight in the hand, with a softly matte, bloomed surface that feels as good to the touch as it looks.
Beyond its beauty, this locket carries layered meaning. The iris has a long history of symbolism and, in the language of flowers, is associated with courage, wisdom, faith, and admiration. Named for the Greek goddess Iris, messenger between heaven and earth, the flower also carries associations with communication, hope, and connection between worlds. The bearded iris in particular is especially dramatic and regal.
American lockets of this scale, presence, and condition are increasingly difficult to find—particularly with such a strong floral motif and original surface intact. This was an immediate and emphatic “yes” for us the moment we saw it.
Marked 14k.
14k gold, diamond.
Dimensions and weight:
● 46 mm long (including the suspension loop)
● 37.9 mm wide
● 7.1 mm deep
● 20 grams/20.4 grams (without/with covers)
Period: Art Nouveau
*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present. Original rims and covers (early type of thin plastic) are present, and locket closes securely. We will also include the purple satin inserts that came with the locket when we found it.
*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.
Sculptural, Substantial. Distinctly American Art Nouveau.
This is a striking American Art Nouveau locket, likely made in Newark, New Jersey, circa 1900—when the city was a major center of fine jewelry production.
Large and substantial, this piece stands out for both its scale and preservation, with a rich original bloomed finish and a beautifully sculpted bearded iris in high relief. The flower is rendered in flowing, textural detail characteristic of the Art Nouveau period, where natural forms were translated into sinuous, expressive design. It has a particularly satisfying weight in the hand, with a softly matte, bloomed surface that feels as good to the touch as it looks.
Beyond its beauty, this locket carries layered meaning. The iris has a long history of symbolism and, in the language of flowers, is associated with courage, wisdom, faith, and admiration. Named for the Greek goddess Iris, messenger between heaven and earth, the flower also carries associations with communication, hope, and connection between worlds. The bearded iris in particular is especially dramatic and regal.
American lockets of this scale, presence, and condition are increasingly difficult to find—particularly with such a strong floral motif and original surface intact. This was an immediate and emphatic “yes” for us the moment we saw it.
Marked 14k.
14k gold, diamond.
Dimensions and weight:
● 46 mm long (including the suspension loop)
● 37.9 mm wide
● 7.1 mm deep
● 20 grams/20.4 grams (without/with covers)
Period: Art Nouveau
*Please note that all dimensions and weights are approximate. Age-commensurate wear may be present. Original rims and covers (early type of thin plastic) are present, and locket closes securely. We will also include the purple satin inserts that came with the locket when we found it.
*For deliveries outside of the continental U.S., please contact us for shipping information.
