A Georgian Regency era 9ct gold antique mourning brooch with a glass 2 sided glass locket compartment containing a hair curl on one side and a hair weave panel on the reverse.
The front of the brooch features pale blonde hair that is set against a milk glass background. The hair is worked into an elaborate curl and decorated with seed pearls in a pattern known as the Prince of Wales feathers. The presence of pearls signifies tears for the deceased and the paleness of the hair suggests this was a memorial piece for a child. The back of the locket contains a panel of dark brown hair in a tight weave.
The pretty gold frame is crafted in a dainty rococo design with floral engraving and a sturdy pin back with a t-hinge and c-clasp completes this lovely feminine brooch that would have perfectly suited the lightweight floral silk gowns of the late Georgian era. Hair is incredibly personal and sentimental so it features a lot in antique mourning jewellery reaching the zenith of its popularity in the Victorian era.
The brooch is in good antique condition given that it is well over 200 years old. There is expected surface wear to the gold but the engraving is still crisp. The locket compartment is a little dusty on the inside, which is only really noticeable in the close up photos that are under magnification, the hair curl design is still intact as is the hair weave. There is some chipping to the edges of the glass but no cracks and the hair is secure inside, please see photos.
MATERIALS: 9ct gold, acid tested
MEASUREMENTS: 2" (5cm) wide and 1-5/8" (4.5cm) top to bottom
WEIGHT: 14.2 grams
HALLMARKS: none
DATE: Georgian, circa 1800
At Mercy Madge we offer distinctive and unique antique and vintage jewellery. Each piece is carefully hand selected by us, for you. We rarely come across two identical old treasures, once they are gone, they are truly gone!
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