Romantic Victorian Heart Pendant, c.1880, with Opal and Hidden Compartment

A tender Victorian locket pendant from around 1880, centred on a heart shaped opal with a soft, shifting play of colour, and framed by glittering old diamonds. The design is small and intimate, with the kind of quiet sentiment that Victorian jewellery carries so well. At the back, a glass covered compartment allows a photograph or other small keepsake to be kept within, which adds to its personal and affectionate character.