A commanding, statement-size antique deeply carved Whitby jet and sterling silver brooch in a truly distinctive design.
Whitby jet jewellery was famously favoured by affluent Victorian ladies, worn almost exclusively during extended periods of mourning. Pieces of this calibre were both a symbol of devotion and a quiet display of status.
Generously proportioned in a softly pillowed oval form, the jet has been masterfully hand-carved into an elaborate flowing ribbon motif. The craftsmanship is exceptional — intricate openwork piercings pass completely through the body of the jet, with a central peephole detail that enhances depth, light play, and dimensionality. The complexity of the carving leaves no margin for error; a single slip would have ruined the precious material. This is the work of a highly skilled Victorian jet carver.
The brooch is fitted with sterling silver fittings, which is unusual for jet jewellery of the period. Even high-quality examples were typically mounted with brass fittings. The presence of sterling silver not only elevates the piece aesthetically but also sets it apart from more conventional examples. The fittings may be a later Victorian or subsequent replacement, but they complement the brooch beautifully.
Whitby jet is a rare fossilised gemstone, formed over millions of years and found only in and around the cliffs of Whitby, England. Our shop is based in the heart of the historic Victorian Whitby jet industry, and all of our pieces are locally sourced, honouring this remarkable regional heritage.
DETAILS:
METAL: sterling silver, acid tested
GEMSTONE: Whitby jet
MEASUREMENTS: 2" (5cm) wide, 1-1/2" (4cm) tall
WEIGHT: 10.7 grams
DATE: circa 1870, Victorian
CONDITION: remains in very good antique condition with no chips or cracks in the jet and the pin back in perfect order. There are the usual tooling marks on the back that you would expect to see in a hand wrought piece of antique Whitby jet jewellery.
At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear and enjoy or give as a gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* We offer free worldwide shipping on all purchases
* Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days.
* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
* Buying a gift? – your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase.
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Materials: Whitby Jet, Sterling Silver.