An authentic mid-Victorian mourning brooch, dating to circa 1870. The brooch is crafted from a single large panel of deep black, high-polished French Jet glass featuring a scalloped outer border and a smooth oval face.

At the center sits a raised brass bezel housing a delicate white floral glass insert, encircled by a halo of twelve natural seed pearls. In 19th-century mourning symbolism, seed pearls represented tears of remembrance. The centerpiece is anchored securely through the main glass panel with a period brass screw and square nut visible on the reverse.

The reverse features a black-lacquered (japanned) brass backing plate complete with authentic period jeweller's hand-engraved scratch/inventory marks, a tube hinge, long pin stem, and a simple C-clasp.

Very good antique condition for its age. All twelve natural seed pearls are intact, present, and securely set. The French Jet glass panel retains a deep black, glossy mirror finish with light edge handling wear consistent with age. The reverse japanned plate shows natural patina, and the pin stem and C-clasp mechanism function properly.

Dimensions

• Height: 3.5 cm

• Width: 3.0 cm

This piece would suit lovers of authentic Victorian mourning jewellery, French Jet brooches, memento mori keepsakes, dark academia style, or 19th-century seed pearl accessories.