A beautifully unusual vintage locket in 18ct gold, circa 1960, with a distinctive dual-opening door design — two doors that open outward from the centre, each inlaid with serene chalcedony. Chalcedony is a translucent variety of quartz prized for its smooth, waxy lustre and its characteristic pale blue-grey or milky white colour — a stone with a long history in fine jewellery, valued for its quiet, contemplative beauty. The perimeter of the locket is framed with ruby accents, the deep red of the rubies providing a striking contrast to the cool, pale chalcedony inlays. The dual-door mechanism is both a practical and an elegant solution, allowing the locket to open fully to reveal the interior whilst maintaining a clean, architectural form when closed.

At 10.5g in 18ct gold and 3.1 × 2.2cm (excluding bale), this is a locket of substantial presence. A distinctive and wearable piece of 1960s gold jewellery — and a deeply personal gift.

The Details

• Circa: 1960
• Metal: 18ct gold (tests as 18ct)
• Inlay: Chalcedony (dual doors)
• Accents: Rubies (perimeter)
• Weight: 10.5g
• Dimensions: 3.1 × 2.2cm (excl. bale)