1861 Victorian mourning 14k gold banded agate heart Pendant with pearls

An exquisite antique gold heart pendant, this Victorian example belongs in the mourning jewelry category, I think, based on the inscription that runs almost its entire perimeter on the back side. Centered by a black piece of agate with a stripe of white cutting the perfectly carved heart in two at mid-height, the 14k yellow gold setting is adorned with a halo of small pearls which continue on the front of the bail. On the back, the hair compartment has what I believe to be its original glass and engraved around it one can read: "My beloved Papa Dec. 14 1861", "From Mama" and "Beatrice". I am leaving it to our imagination to fill in the gaps of the pendant's story but before I stop, I will add that this is one of the sweetest piece of jewelry I have ever had...

Size / Weight: 1 1/4" tall (including the bail) by just a tad above 3/4" wide; 8.9 grams

Hallmarks / Date: not signed for maker nor hallmarked for metal quality yet tested and guaranteed to be solid 14k gold; 1861 or a little earlier

Condition: excellent vintage condition with all its pearls present, securely set in their places and with their nacre in great shape; having an boldly carved, perfectly finished agate with deep, dark color and a striking white band; retaining what I believe to be its original glass window on the back and with its inscription crisp and easily readable; no damage and no repairs noted

Inv# 15831