Victorian Austro-Hungarian c1880 Carved Wheat Sheaf and Seed Pearl Mourning Locket

This glorious Austro-Hungarian antique locket dates back to the Austro-Hungarian Empire (1867-1919) with the black enamel & carved wheat sheaf style indicative of the Victorian period, circa 1880. The front of locket is carved with a wheat sheaf symbol and decorated with 10 natural Seed Pearls (appears to be all original pearls). The black enamel on silver covers the front, back and bail. Locket is made in 800 silver with a gold wash, the gold wash is more apparent inside.

This locket opens up to reveal two charming Victorian portraits of husband & wife (or so we can assume)! The portraits appear to be tintype on paper mat with hand-painted touches which exudes wonderful Victorian detail to both portraits.

Behind portraits reveal an Austro-Hungarian hallmark - the six-sided lozenge cartouche with a dog's head, a letter 'A' and number '3'. Letter 'A' indicates that the locket comes from Vienna and the numeral '3' indicates a silver standard of '800'. Also makers mark- 'S & M' . Other marks stamped to ring are unclear.

The sturdy 24+ gram weight indicates a nice solid structure, made to last for past generations as well as future generations. A gorgeous antique treasure to collect or wear...