Heart-shaped Locket Pendant Value Guide

This mid-century heart-shaped locket is a classic example of sentimental jewelry popular in the UK and US between 1950 and 1980. Featuring a romantic double-heart engraved motif, these pieces were cherished gifts for mothers and sweethearts, designed to hold tiny photographs or mementos.

What affects the value of Heart-shaped Locket Pendant?

• Condition of the gold-filled exterior, specifically looking for 'brassing' or areas where the gold layer has worn through.
• Functionality of the hinge and the 'snap' closure, as a loose or damaged latch significantly reduces collector interest.
• Presence of original internal components like photo rims and protective inserts.
• The intricacy and clarity of the engraved double-heart motif on the front cover.

How to Identify Heart-shaped Locket Pendant?

• Look for 'GF' or 'RGP' stamps on the bail or interior rim indicating gold-filled or rolled gold plate construction.
• Examine the hinge and bail for signs of base metal wear, which is common in mid-20th century mass-produced pieces.
• Verify the double-heart engraving style, which typically features fine machine-etched lines characteristic of the 1950-1980 era.
• Check for the presence of original internal frames or celluloid covers used to secure photographs.

History of Heart-shaped Locket Pendant

Heart lockets have been used since the Victorian era to carry tiny photos or mementos close to the wearer. Popular throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, inexpensive gold-filled and rolled-gold lockets with engraved romantic motifs became especially common mid-20th century as sentimental gifts for sweethearts and mothers.