French black and white banded agate and diamond locket brooch

A heavy quality black and white banded agate and diamond locket brooch c.1860-1880, French origin. 
The center old mine cut diamond is approximately 0.5 carat. A plain and smooth oval black agate is decorated with 16 sphere banded agates, creating an edgy and bold look considering its age. Black and white contrast color gains its popularity in second of 19th century and looks surprisingly modern while wearing.

A very fine border of rose cut diamonds around the oval black panel adds sophistication to this piece. There’s a secret locket compartment at the back of this brooch but at the moment it is impossible to fully open due to the pin system upon it- in order to open the locket the pin must be removed and convert this piece into a pendant-more discussions are welcome if you have thoughts in mind.

As the assessment of an item's condition is highly subjective, please click and enlarge our photos to examine more detailed condition highlights for your judgment.