The first hearts were decorative doodles — likely cribbed from nature — on the edges of Medieval manuscripts. Medieval Europe, with a mostly illiterate population, was all about symbols, and during the 13th and 14th centuries, this random upside-down pear shape began to signify love. That Medieval association of the heart shape = love has remained connected ever since. Fast forward to the mid-19th century: a just-barely-clefted chalcedony heart is hugged by a protective serpent. A glass locket is hidden at the back.
MATERIALS: 14k gold (tests), heart-shaped cabochon calcedony, glass locket lens, new 14k gold chain
AGE: c. 1860
CONDITION: Very good - locket can be removed with the help of a jeweler
SIZE: 1 1/4" length including the bale, 7/8" width, 18" chain