Victorian Sterling Silver Locket Book Chain Collar, Hand-Engraved, Floral Motifs, Birmingham Hallmark, 20" L
$1,100.00
A gorgeous example of a Victorian sterling silver locket book chain collar from Birmingham, England. Featuring a fancy multi-link book chain with a bolt ring and large hinged clasp adorned with a gothic hand-engraved locket.
The locket hangs from a graduated silver bail and features raised embellishments floral motifs, and a robust stamped star trim. The back of the locket is un-decorated besides the trim and makers marks. The inner locket shows the reverse sides of the case's design and has notable silver tarnishing/wear. There are no picture frame inserts or glass except for one oval-shaped plastic cover, but it could be restored or used to store small artifacts.
The book chain is quite unique and features an alternating pattern of wide polished links and cutout scalloped links with an large hinged ring clasp loops through the end links (the clasp is not actually attached and can be removed). Often times, book chains this old have some flattened or damaged links, but this one has remained in remarkable condition.
The combination of marks on the back of the case are designed to identify the origin and age of each piece, but unfortunately some of them have been worn beyond recognition. There is a distinguishable 'Sterling Birmingham' (anchor) hallmark and a partial maker's mark that looks like 'JD', but the silver quality marker and date letters are illegible so we cannot confirm it's exact age or silver composition. Based on comparable pieces we believe this to be a late Victorian book chain from the 1890's.
This piece was obviously well cared for by its previous owners and is in great condition for its age with only a few minuscule dings and scratches.There is some notable tarnishing and wear to portions of the silver, more so on the locket than the chain, but nothing that affects its wearability or overall aesthetic.
**This listing contains photographs of the actual item you will receive. Please look closely at the pictures as they are part of the product description. Every piece is cleaned, polished, examined, and described to the best of our ability and we encourage you to reach out with any questions.**
Condition: Antique; good
Book chain: 20" L x 5/8" W
Pendant height (including bail): 2 1/2"
Locket: 2" L x 1 5/8" W x 7/16" D
Weight: 51.4 grams
Shipping from United States
Processing time
1-3 business days
Customs and import taxes
Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.
Payment Options
Returns & Exchanges
I gladly accept returns
Just contact me within: 14 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 30 days of delivery
I don't accept exchanges or cancellations
But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.
The following items can't be returned or exchanged
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:
- Custom or personalized orders
- Perishable products (like food or flowers)
- Digital downloads
- Intimate items (for health/hygiene reasons)
Conditions of return
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you do returns?
We do accept returns within 30 days of delivery however we do charge either a 10% or $35 restocking fee, whichever is lower.
Wholesale availability
We do sell to wholesellers! Message us for more info.
Can y'all resize an item for me?
Unfortunately, we do not do resizing for our jewelry unless it is explicitly stated in the description.
When can I expect my items?
We ship out our items twice a week - once on Wednesday and once on Saturday. If you need something shipped quickly, please let us know and we'll do our best to accommodate your request.