French antique heart-shaped bloodstone gold locket

This is an elegantly designed heart-shaped photo pendant from the 1880s, crafted in France using bloodstone and 18k gold.

The symbolism of the heart shape dates back to ancient Greece, although the true origin of the heart shape becoming a romantic symbol is still a matter of debate. However, it is known that heart-shaped symbols have been present in jewelry since the Middle Ages and gained popularity in everyday European life from the 15th century.

Unlike the familiar symmetrical heart shape we know today, this bloodstone photo pendant has a more asymmetrical form, resembling a teardrop or pear shape, which is an older style of heart shape. This style was particularly popular in the late 18th to 19th centuries, and many "crowned hearts" adopted this design. Napoleon's engagement ring, the "Toi et Moi" ring for his fiancée Josephine in 1796, featured this ancient heart shape as well.

The pendant is adorned with a rope-like decorative border, and it has a glass insert that divides the pendant into two parts. As for bloodstone, also known as heliotrope, it features red spots on a green background and has been considered a powerful healing stone since the Middle Ages, often worn close to the heart. The combination of the ancient heart symbol and the legendary bloodstone makes this piece emotionally significant.

The photo pendant is in good antique condition, with normal signs of wear and oxidation, particularly in some areas. The locket functions properly. The pendant is marked with an 18k gold eagle headstamp. Assessing the condition of an item can be subjective, so please click on and enlarge our photos to examine more detailed condition information as a basis for your judgment.