Interesting composition in this brooch for collectors of antique jewellery.
The jewel has a feature of an Ivy leaf made of Jet, subtly decorated with tendrils. As an evergreen, ivy was one of the only plants to remain green during the cold British Victorian winters. Along with the mistletoe, the holly, and the fir tree, it had a major role to play in decorations for the winter solstice and Christmas. So, originally, its meaning was to do with life and eternity. However, over time, it came to represent everlasting love, deep friendship, fidelity, or wedded bliss. Apart from being an evergreen and its twining growth habit, I suspect much of the romantic symbology was due to some types of ivy having heart-shaped leaves.
This ivy leaf is inset with a pearl. Pearls were used as symbols of tears in mourning jewellery, worn when thinking of a departed loved one.
The leaf is supported on a 9 Carat (9ct) rose gold bar to accentuate the quality.
The brooch measures approximately 55 mm across.
Victorian jewellery reflected the mood of the population and its influential queen. When she was in love, common themes were hearts, anchors and nature; but when she was in mourning, jewellery design became dark, dramatic and sombre. Queen Victoria had two passions: her husband, Prince Albert, and jewellery. After his death in 1861, she dressed only in black, and wore jewellery created from jet, onyx and black glass. She also popularised mourning jewellery and hair rings.
Buyers from outside Australia are welcome, hoever please contact us prior to any purchase in order to discuss shipping options.