Gold-Washed Sterling Silver or Brass Locket/Pendant, Plain Medallion Form
Jewelry (Pendant/Locket) · Indistinguishable from image; likely a mass-market manufacturer of the mid-20th century. Lacks high-end designer characteristics typical of Tiffany or Jensen.
Pattern: Plain Circular Pattern; non-decorative utilitarian aesthetic common in 1940s-1970s jewelry findings.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Locket)
Maker
Indistinguishable from image; likely a mass-market manufacturer of the mid-20th century. Lacks high-end designer characteristics typical of Tiffany or Jensen.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver with a Gold Vermeil wash or Gold-Plated Brass. The surface shows significant gold-tone wear, revealing a lighter metal underneath in the center.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter: 35-40mm (approx. 1.5 inches). Estimated weight: 10-15 grams. Larger than a standard coin, consistent with a photograph locket.
Description
This is a circular, gold-toned medallion pendant or locket. It features a completely plain, unengraved surface, designed to be a blank canvas for a monogram. The item has a warm, brassy patina with visible surface scratches and 'pitting' from age and skin acid contact. It represents a classic mid-century sentimental jewelry piece.
Key Features
Planished or satin-brushed surface; rectangular integral bail; double-convex form suggestive of a locket interior.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver with a Gold Vermeil wash or Gold-Plated Brass. The surface shows significant gold-tone wear, revealing a lighter metal underneath in the center.
Finish & Decoration
Satin/Brushed finish with heavy surface oxidation and brassy tarnish. No engraving, chasing, or repoussé is visible on the shown face.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Marks are not visible in the provided image; likely located on the interior rim, the reverse side, or the small rectangular bail attached to the top.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped circular disk with an applied (soldered) rectangular wire bail. Appears to be a hinged construction (locket) based on the depth of the edge.
Functional Features
Top-mounted bail for a chain or ribbon; likely contains a hinge and snap-closure for holding a photograph or memento.
Handle & Grip Details
The bail handle is a simple rectangular loop, soldered to the top, showing significant wear on the interior where a chain would rest.
Craftsmanship Details
Commercial grade construction. The soldering on the bail is functional but lacks the seamless refinement of artisan hand-wrought silver.
Authentication Indicators
The tarnish color suggests either low-grade silver with copper content or a base metal (brass/bronze) under plating. A 'Sterling' stamp would be required to confirm silver content.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Europe. The mass-produced nature of the soldering and stamping suggests a commercial jewelry factory.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern to Retro (approx. 1940-1960). The simple, unadorned circular form was popular for personalized engraving during this period.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950, based on the patina, the shape of the bail, and the specific wear patterns on the gold finish.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of jewelry in the mid-20th century, moving away from ornate Victorian styles toward clean, minimalist functionalism.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Significant wear to the gold plating (vermeil), particularly in the center. Numerous fine surface scratches and circular scuffing. No major dents but significant oxidation.
Value Estimate
$15 - $40 USD depending on whether it is marked 'Sterling' or is simply gold-plated base metal.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid aggressive silver dips as they may strip the remaining gold wash.
Similar Pieces
Vintage Monocle frames (different bail style), Brass button covers, or high-end Sterling lockets by makers like Forstner or Hayward.
Interesting Facts
Large, plain lockets like this were often given as 'Sweetheart' jewelry during WWII and the post-war era, intended to be engraved with initials or containing 'hidden' photos.