Antique 1860s Victorian Jet Mourning Hairwork Pendant Necklace
Description
This deeply evocative Victorian mourning pendant is crafted from carved Whitby Jet, renowned for its lightness and mirror-like polish. The oval form is smooth and domed, highly reflective, and rich in colour—an excellent example of genuine Jet’s natural beauty.
The reverse features an intricately arranged lock of hair, preserved beneath a glazed oval window and framed in a warm brass mount. Hairwork was a common and meaningful practice in the 19th century, used as a deeply personal token of memory and love. The combination of glossy black Jet and preserved hair makes this a powerful mourning piece, likely worn as a symbol of grief and remembrance.
Dating to the c.1860s, this pendant speaks to the rituals of high mourning popularised during Queen Victoria’s era. It would have originally been worn on a black ribbon or long chain and does not include a chain today.
Materials
Whitby Jet, hairwork, brass
Era
Victorian, c.1860s
Measurements
Height (excluding bail): 4.5 cm / 1.77”
Width: 3.9 cm / 1.54”
Weight: 14.38g
Condition
Very good antique condition. Surface shows light age-appropriate wear. Jet is highly polished with no cracks; hairwork remains intact under glass. Bail is secure.
SKU
6873
Christmas Extended Returns
All orders from November 23rd are eligible for extended returns until 10th January.
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