Beautifully crafted, this half-mourning brooch boasts etched ribbon-like goldwork, faceted almandine garnets, and two accent pearls (indicating tears of sorrow) on the front, and minutely woven fabric in a small locket under glass on the reverse. Once the period of deep mourning (2-3 years) was at an end, Victorians were permitted to reintroduce some color into their wardrobes. This signified that while life was going forward for the living, they still held their lost loved one dear.
Our example can be worn as a brooch or pendant, as it has a bale as well as a pin clasp on the reverse.
Details (approximate)
Dimensions: 58mm x 42mm
Weight: 12 grams
Materials: 14K gold, Almandine garnets, pearls
Metal: 14K gold
Marks: none
Condition: Excellent antique condition; age tarnish or soil on the reverse surface.
LORL