Dating to the 1820's and likely English in origin, it has a glass-covered locket that contains an intricately woven plait of chestnut and silver hair. Set into 15k yellow gold, the compartment is then surrounded by two ovals of half pearls.

Beautifully matched, the pearls still glow with a fine sheen. Tiny crimped edges of undulating scallops hold them in place.

Eight rows of creamy ecru pink saltwater pearls graduate with the largest centermost. These are an equal mix of natural and cultured saltwater pearls.

They vary in size from just under 3 mm to about 4.5 mm. Although vintage and later in date than the clasp, care was taken to match these with the Georgian clasp in hue, shape, surface and luster.

Simply indescribably luxurious when worn, the feel is silken and regal.

Historical note: Hairwork jewelry often had two major meanings: one sentimental and one memorial. One could even send in a lock of hair and have it made into all variety of jewelry from rings to brooches. Today will still marvel at the intricacy and patience needed to take something so fine and delicate, and produce images, plaits and braids.