Please, some help on orgins of this.

[brianc577]

This was not dug, a coworker found in in an old house years ago. Any information would be helpful as to its age, use, or orgin. The outer case seems to be brass/copper, the inner items are unknown. The item measures 4 inches long. The fine work appears to be all fine metals.

Thank you

 

[Ant]

It looks like a Catholic Crucifix with Mother Mary on guard below. Then you open it and the trinity is inside. But I'm judging from my cell phone, a very precious piece.

 

[brianc577]

I added some pics of the back and the inside. I know this is a crucifix, but is there another name for it?

Thank you!!!!

 

[BillF]

What's inside is quite fascinating. Wow.

 

[Jeff Calzarette]

Are the items inside loose? Are they made of hair? Are there names on the little pieces of paper? If yes probably Victorian Hair Art or Mourning Hair art which was made from loved ones hair when they passed. Very cool piece. J.Calz

 

[brianc577]

There are names of saints on the paper. All the art is fixed and I believe it is gold. There is headed hair around the heart in the center

 

[1859large]

Those inside bits look like they are either gilt or solid gold. Gilt has little metal value. Sold gold would be worth its weight of whatever carat it is. As an object it might have even higher value in the right market. The symbols on the cover might give a clue as to what group it is associated with, if any, Masons, Knights of Columbus or whatever, Loyal Order of ?

HH

1859