Large Victorian Mizpah Locket

The word Mizpah symbolizes an emotional bond between two separated people, either physically or by death. Many believed inscribing the word on an amulet would ensure the safe return of a loved one.

Hebrew for "watchtower," the word Mizpah appears in the Old Testament in Genesis 31:49, "And Mizpah; for he said, The Lord watch between me and thee, when we are absent from one another."

Roughly translating to "I will always be with you," Mizpah jewelry saw a rise in popularity in the mid-1800s until about the 1880s. A forget-me-not of sorts, these spiritual pieces were generally given to a loved one during a period of long separation, such as military service or travel. They are often considered to be the precursor to sweetheart jewelry.

This sizeable locket is made of 935 silver. One side features beautiful engraving work with a stylized Star of David framing a pair of forget-me-not flowers and a morning glory. The other side has a exquisitely engraved braid framing a raised centerpiece containing a morning glory vine and a banner with the word Mizpah inscribed on it.

It is hard to say whether this was meant to be a sentimental piece or a mourning piece since both flowers pictured represent love and adoration and also death and remembrance, so how you interpret it is up to you.

Locket comes on a new sterling silver chain.