What does back and front mean in jewellery?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Back and front is a construction method used mainly in Victorian and Edwardian jewellery, where solid gold or silver panels form the front and back of a piece while the interior frame, sides and hinges are made from a stronger base metal like steel. The result combines the durability of base metal with the beauty of precious metal on the surfaces you can see. Back and front lockets are the most common surviving examples, and many are in remarkable condition today precisely because the base metal structure kept them rigid and strong.
Frequently asked questions
- Is back and front jewellery valuable?
- It is less valuable than solid gold or silver pieces of similar appearance, because there is far less precious metal in it. The gold or silver content is only in the surface panels, not throughout, so the scrap value is modest. Antique pieces in good condition still carry historical and collector value.
- How can you tell if a locket is back and front or solid?
- The easiest way is to check the weight and the interior sides. A back and front piece will often show a different metal on the inner edges of hinges or clasps, or have a lighter feel than you would expect for the size. A jeweller can test the metal to be sure.
- Why was back and front construction used?
- It was a practical solution in the 19th century for making decorative jewellery accessible to the growing middle class. Using less precious metal kept costs down while still producing pieces that looked like solid gold or silver on the outside.
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