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Now all but forgotten, the art of wearing mourning jewelry was once a common practice for hundreds of years. Popular in the time before photography, mourning jewelry was created to serve as a keepsake to remember a lost loved one.
Many pieces would include a lock of the deceased's hair or, later, their photograph.
This exquisite piece hails from the tail end of the Georgian period. Crafted in pinchbeck or possibly a low carat gold, this beautiful brooch features a lovely braided love knot of chestnut brown hair surrounded by a starburst of faceted black Whitby jet cabochons.
What makes this piece unusual, is that there is a second hair compartment on the back, which holds a tuft of brunette hair. Could this be a story of two lovers?
The name Julia is engraved on the back.
Additional Details
Date: 1830s, possibly early 1840s
Materials: Pinchbeck, Whitby jet, glass, human hair
Measurements: 1.5" x 1.25"
Markings: Engraved with the name Julia on the back
Condition: Very Good
A few pieces of jet have tiny chips, which is not uncommon. The back has surface scratches consistent with age and use. Some of the hair is poking out of the back glass, which has probably been like that since it was first put in there.
Cleaning and Care
Clean with a damp cloth, if necessary. Do not submerge in water as it will damage the hair. Wipe dry with a soft cloth.
