Victorian Cross Reliquary Locket

An unusual mid 19th-century Victorian reliquary locket in the form of a cross, skillfully crafted so the hidden compartment opens by means of a release button hidden in the base. Likely this originally held a lock of hair, as the engraved motto on the cover reads "In memory of".

Details: The engraved plates on the front and back of the cross are sterling silver, as is the large bail and the compartment lid. The body of the cross is a nickle alloy. When the button in the base is pressed the lid pops open, it should also be pressed when closing the lid to prevent wear to the lip of the clasp. The cross measures approximately 2 1/8" long, not including the large bail, and 1 3/8" wide. 

Condition: In excellent condition with a lovely patina and some light surface marks as evidence of a long life. The interior of the compartment has some slight solder marks and general oxidization.