Oval locket-style pendant in the Victorian or Art Nouveau manner

This item is an oval-shaped, hinged locket-style pendant featuring a highly decorative relief. The piece displays two winged cherubs or putti in symmetrical poses, appearing to hold drapery or floral garlands amidst a background of scrolling filigree and floral motifs. The metal appears to be a toned brass or gold-colored alloy with a significant dark patina within the recessed areas, which serves to emphasize the dimensionality of the casting. The border is finished with a rhythmic foliate or 'scroll' pattern. Attached to the top is a simple cable-link chain ending in a thin wire hook, possibly representing a modified jewelry component or an ornament hanger. No hallmarks, maker's marks, or metal purity stamps are legible in the provided image. The design is stylistically consistent with late 19th-century Victorian or early 20th-century Art Nouveau aesthetics, though the level of detail and mechanical hinge suggest it could be a later revival piece. The owner identifies the material as 'metal', which is unverified but consistent with the visual appearance of a base metal with a secondary plating or finish. Condition appears fair, with visible surface wear, minor scratches, and oxidation consistent with age and handling.

Based on my examination of the provided images, this locket-style pendant reflects a design aesthetic characteristic of the late 19th-century Victorian era or the early 20th-century Art Nouveau movement. The relief depicts two winged putti and scrolling foliate motifs, which suggests it is a piece of decorative costume jewelry rather than a fine jewelry item. The owner identifies the material as 'metal,' and based on the visible darkened patina and surface wear, I suspect it is a base metal alloy, possibly brass or bronze, that may have originally featured a thin gold-wash or plating. From a photo, I cannot verify the exact metallurgical composition, nor can I confirm if it is a period antique or a later 20th-century revival piece. The absence of visible hallmarks typically associated with Victorian gold or silver supports a hypothesis that this was produced as accessible fashion jewelry. The value estimate of $45-$85 is based on the item as a decorative antique or high-quality vintage revival piece in fair condition. In the current market, there is steady demand for Victorian-style sentimental jewelry, though pricing is heavily influenced by the presence of precious metals and confirmed provenance. Should an in-person inspection by a specialist reveal a hidden hallmark for a recognized maker or a higher precious metal content, the value could increase significantly. Conversely, if the item is found to be a modern mass-produced reproduction using contemporary casting methods, the value would likely fall below $20. To confirm these hypotheses, I recommend a physical test for metal purity and a microscopic examination of the hinge and casting seams to determine the manufacturing period and technique used.