Antique SKM & Co. Gold-Filled Rounded-Square Engraved Locket with Original Celluloid Cover

A truly remarkable piece of American jewelry history: an authentic, signed antique locket crafted by the renowned S.K. Merrill Company (marked SKM & CO). Founded in Providence, Rhode Island in 1872, the company was famous for producing high-quality, durable, and ornately detailed lockets. This specific piece dates to the late Victorian or Edwardian era (circa 1890-1915).

This dainty locket is in rare, collector-grade condition. Unlike most pieces of this age, it shows minimal to no notable brassing or gold wear-through along the high-friction edges. The exterior features gorgeous, crisp scrollwork and floral engravings that have retained their beautiful depth and mirror-like golden luster.

Interior & Mechanics:

The mechanics of this locket are perfect. The hinge is tight with zero wobble, and it snaps shut securely with a crisp, satisfying click. Inside, the original photo bezel/frame is entirely intact. Most importantly, it still features its original clear celluloid photo cover—a fragile component that is almost always cracked, yellowed, or missing entirely from 100+ year-old pieces.

Condition Details:

• Exterior: Pristine antique condition. Excellent gold layer retention with minimal to no pocket wear.
• Interior: Clean, signed "SKM & CO" inside a shield hallmark.
• Functional: Snaps closed tightly. Hinge is flush and secure. Original celluloid insert included.

Perfect as a meaningful heirloom gift, a stunning addition to an antique watch chain fob collection, or a historical pendant for daily wear.

Please review all high-resolution photos as they form part of the condition description. Chain not included.