Details: This is beautifully executed checker patterned niello locket. The pattern is both at the front and back of the locket and the niello has a soft washed black hue. The large locket is functional with room for two good-sized photographs in its interior.

Niello is a black enamel-like mixture of copper, silver, and lead sulfides that is used to inlay etched or repoussé work and fired to a hardness much like enamel. The result is carefully buffed and shows a shimmery silvery gray-black hue that highlights the incised lines and is much more durable than traditional enamel. The Egyptians and the ancient Romans were the first to use a form of niello decoration and it has been used in many forms for thousands of years.

Measurements: The total length is 2", including bale, and the width is 1 1/4".

Origin: Likely American.

Notes: is sold separately.