Antique Victorian ‘Regard’ Locket in Sterling Silver, c. 1880 Antiquaria

The opening of trade relations with Japan in 1853 had a heavy influence on Victorian jewelry. Fashion and accessories brought back from travelers led to imitations and artistic influences during the Grand Period (1861 – 1885). This increased exposure to Japanese craftsmanship gave way to this “Japonaise” style which was incorporated into all aspects of art, fashion, architecture, and design with stylized fans, cattail weeds, dragons, insects, bamboo, etc. Silver jewelry boomed in Birmingham, England during this same time, particularly with novelty themed jewelry, just like this beautiful locket.

This antique Victorian REGARD locket with its Japanese inspired motif was handcrafted around 1880. It features a motif of a robed man sitting next to bamboo growing tall, with the word, “Regard” engraved in the upper right-hand corner. The inside reveals two covered frames lined in blue fabric, just perfect for two photographs. Overall, this locket measures 59.7 x 29.5 x 8.8 mm and weighs 23.6 grams. It has been professionally acid tested.

Regard was a common motif found in Victorian jewelry, as it was meant as a shortened version of the phrase “with my regards”, as though it was at the end of a long love letter, or “I highly regard you”, meaning someone holds you dearly to their heart.

We offer a 3 or 4 payment layaway on most items purchased for full retail price, please inquire if you are interested in setting up a layaway. Items ship when payment is complete and items purchased or payments made on layaway are eligible for store credit only.

Please note that our photographs are part of our description, please look carefully, we do not digitally alter our items. We always want you to be happy with every aspect of your purchase, and If you are not completely satisfied for any reason simply let us know and we’ll work together to get the item returned for a full refund. I guarantee that my pictures and descriptions are as accurate as possible. My goal is to exceed your best expectations!