Antique Gold Quartz Necklace with Locket

Antique Gold Quartz Necklace with Locket
Comprised of two rose gold quartz watch chains each consisting of 6 links (12 total) attached together and securing a single gold quartz locket. Each heavy link is inlaid with 2 plaques of gold quartz set into each side. The larger, rectangular shaped links, with caps on each end, attach to each other by graceful gold loops. The others are linked together with similar links. At the end of each chain is a watch swivel clasp and an inlaid gold quartz barbell (for pocket watch use or decoration). At the end of each chain is a watch swivel clasp and an inlaid gold quartz barbell (for pocket watch use or decoration). The entire length of the chain measures 23" long plus the two barbells and locket. Chains can be easily separated and used independently. The overall condition of the chain is excellent. There is no apparent damage to the gold links and the clasps fasten securely and are in good condition. There is some very minor chipping in the inlaid gold quartz but is hard to find. Overall fine condition, circa 1890s.

1848 was the year that gold was discovered in California, and its romance and lure are sealed in our history books. Between 1847 and 1870 the population of San Francisco increased from 500 t0 150,000 and great Gold Rush wealth was born. As a show of status and affluence, wearing gold quartz jewelry was a popular way to express signs of this great wealth. The 1880s was a time of high fashion for gold quartz and the most popular uses were for stick pins, rings, cane handles and watch chains.

Gold bearing quartz is a rare natural phenomenon, with its white crystals formed by hydrothermal pressure deep within the Earth millions of years ago. When the quartz contains a rare gold dispersion, and cut into slab to expose the gold veins, a dramatic contrast between the white quartz and the yellow of the gold can be set into specific 14k designs to enhance the natural flow of the gold and bring out its beauty.

What is presented here is a marvelous gold quartz watch chain from the Victoria era. This particular piece is comprised of 2 hand-made gold quartz watch chains, each 6 links and a beautiful gold quartz locket used to keep photos or hair. Made of rose gold, the chains are comprised of wonderfully detailed and ornate links. They can be divided and worn individually as classic and elegant 6-link watch chains or easily connect as they are here, to be worn together wear as a 12-link necklace, displaying a gold quartz locket as a drop.