Unusual and very charming large tortoise locket backed pendant modelled as a tortoise.
 
The individual, geometric shapes that cover the bony shell are called scutes and here they are depicted in panels of silver and gold.
His mouth holds a 9 carat gold antique split ring.
 
The reverse has a glass locket panel with gold edge, and inside some aqua grosgrain silk replacing the original hair.
 
For the Victorians, the tortoise was deeply symbolic of longevity, endurance, and devotion
 
The tortoise embodied Aesop's moral of "slow and steady wins the race," representing a patient, unbothered approach to life during a rapidly industrialising era.
 
Chain not included but is available - message me for details.
 
weighs - 11.7g
measures - 54mm x 29mm
Split ring - 16.8mm diameter
 
Finely Inlaid in 9 carat gold and silver pique.
 
English circa 1870
 
condition - excellent