Antique Victorian Whitby Jet Mourning Brooch Circa 1870

Large finely carved Whitby Jet brooch featuring a cross-hatched design typical of the period.
Quite a large example measuring 5.5cm x 4.4cm with original bar-set pin and ‘C’ clasp to the verso.

Exhibiting a lovely sheen to the highly polished and expertly carved facets.
These brooches look magnificent worn at the throat particularly against a white shirt, or to the lapel of your favourite coat.

History of Whitby Jet
Whitby jets history began in Britain in the Neolithic period.  It continued in use through the Bronze age where is was initially used for necklace beads.  Losing popularity around the end or the Roman empire but made a resurgence during the Victorian era after Queen Victoria wore a necklace of Whitby jet as part of her mourning dress for Princess Victoria of Sax-Coburg and Gotha.  Later the Queen wore Whitby again while mourning the death of Prince Albert.
It was used extensively for rings, bangles, necklaces and pendants, many of which on display in the Yorkshire Museum.

STONES
None
Whitby Jet
MEASUREMENTS
5.5cm x 4.5cm
WEIGHT
25.43 Grams
MARKS
None
CONDITION
Very nice antique condition, excellent for its approximately 150 years. No damage to finely carved front, no chips or crazing to verso. Pin fitting ‘may’ have been re-attatched at some point in its history as miniscule evidence of jewellers glue, however if so this has been done expertly, very secure, in perfect working condition, all original and ‘C’ clasp works perfectly.  Only noting for accuracy, of no consequence.

Please note boxes are for display

Purchase Summary

All our items are antique or vintage unless otherwise stated. Condition will be described, it is the responsibility of the buyer to read and view photos.

Prior to purchase, please view our Purchase Guide & Return Policy. All purchases within Australia will be sent via express post as a complimentary service.International rates apply.  Please view our Shipping & Delivery Policy for more details


Collections: Sold Archive


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