This graphic locket dates to the late 1800s. The locket features crisp, narrow stripes rendered in niello - a black metallic alloy used to fill in designs cut from metal. The face of the locket is embellished with decorative stripes of rose gold. Niello originated in Ancient Egypt and the technique spread to Europe as early as the Iron Age. Niello jewelry reached the height of its popularity during the Renaissance and then experienced a brief return to favor at the end of the 19th century, when this piece was made. Hangs from a new 18" 14k gold chain.