Whiting & Davis Locket Necklace Value Guide

This Whiting & Davis locket necklace is a quintessential example of mid-20th-century American costume jewelry, featuring a highly detailed embossed village scene. Produced between 1960 and 1980, these pieces are sought after by collectors for their ability to blend historical pastoral imagery with the brand's legendary metalworking heritage.

What affects the value of Whiting & Davis Locket Necklace?

• The condition of the gold-toned plating, specifically looking for signs of 'brassing' or wear on the high points of the embossed scene.
• The presence of the original chain and the functional integrity of the locket hinge and snap closure.
• The clarity of the interior photo frames, as missing or damaged inserts can decrease the collectible value from the $55 baseline.

How to Identify Whiting & Davis Locket Necklace?

• Look for the 'Whiting & Davis' maker's mark typically stamped on the interior of the locket or on a small metal hangtag near the clasp.
• Examine the exterior for the specific embossed village motif, which should show crisp, clear architectural details rather than blurred lines.
• Verify the gold-toned finish is consistent across both the pendant and the original chain, characteristic of their 1960s-1980s production standards.

History of Whiting & Davis Locket Necklace

Whiting & Davis, an American company founded in 1876, is renowned for its mesh handbags and costume jewelry. During the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1960s to 1980s, they produced a line of distinct lockets and pendants, often featuring intricate embossed scenes, sometimes depicting historical or pastoral imagery. These pieces became popular for their craftsmanship and affordability, offering a touch of vintage elegance to everyday wear.