Georgian 9ct Gold Mourning Brooch

Georgian 9ct Gold Mourning Brooch

 

The antique Georgian or early Victorian 9ct yellow gold mourning (or more probably "Think of Me") brooch is unusually large and has a long needle.

The brooch was probably made as a memento to remind of a loved one during a period of absence, rather than after death. Mourning brooches, for after death, became more of a feature in Victorian times, particularly after the death of Prince Albert.

The brooch contains a centrepiece of elaborately arranged hair in a stylised "Prince of Wales feather design. The centrepiece is decorated with very fine twist-wire and other fine wire gold decoration. The hair and the gold decoration are mounted on a white background that is probably made of mother-of-pearl.

The centrepiece is covered by a clear glass front and a black glass back and is tube-set into an elaborate, open-work Rococo gold surround with engraved details.

The brooch has a small attached ring on the back that could be used for a safety chain or possibly to fix a bale to enable the brooch to be worn as a pendant.

 The brooch is unmarked but has been electronically scanned and tests to be approximately 9ct gold. It is probably English.

 

Weight                                    23.5g total

Age                                         Circa 1830

Dimensions                             Circa 61.5mm x 54mm x 13mm

                                                 thick (excluding needle)

Origin                                       Probably England

Condition                                Excellent, particularly considering its age

Stock Code                             BG125