Antique Moth and Ivy leaf mourning brooch, Whitby jet, Diamond, pearl and Ruby, 15ct gold

We are in awe of this beautiful, fine and rare antique Victorian mourning brooch.

Crafted in 15ct yellow gold with a rich aged patina and inky black Whitby jet.

It features a finely carved Whitby jet ivy leaf, the ivy leaf itself representing the evergreen or everlasting, usually the everlasting love felt for a loved one lost.

Black colours were commonly used in mourning jewellery and in this context the colour is said to represent death.

The leaf has perched on top of it a pretty jewelled moth, crafted in gold it is adorned with creamy seed pearls with ruby eyes and a single old cut diamond.

Pearls in mourning jewellery are said to represent tears and moths were for a long time thought to represent death or the soul.

This brooch is upon first look not necessarily seen as a mourning piece and is more subtle in its design but not in its symbolism, whomever created this or commissioned this piece really put a lot of sentiment into it with each little touch having a deep meaning.

It is truly a magnificent piece of mourning jewellery.

It fastens with an early safety style fastener this is a later replacement.

Perfect for the collector of mourning jewellery, this is a true heirloom quality piece and quite a rare piece!

Marks and era:
Unmarked, tests as 15ct gold, Victorian era, C1880s.

Condition:
Good used condition overall, minor surface wear commensurate with age and use, clasp is a replacement.

Approx measurements:
1.55" width
1.50" height / length

Weighs approx 10.37 grams

Any questions or queries please contact us.

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