An authentic late Victorian mourning brooch pin, dating to circa 1880. The brooch features a large central oval panel of smooth, high-polished French Jet (deep black glass), surrounded by an openwork wirework halo set with curved black glass panels and faceted glass beads.

As an item of Victorian mourning etiquette and dark fashion, French Jet mounted on a blackened iron wire framework was widely favoured during the second and half-mourning periods for its dramatic luster and rich texture. The reverse exhibits an intricate hand-twisted iron wire framework fitted with a period hand-soldered tube hinge, an extended iron pin stem, and a simple C-clasp catch.

Good antique condition for its age. All large French Jet black glass panels are present, intact, and securely mounted. Please note condition: there is an odd missing glass bead along the outer beaded ring, and one edge stone displays evidence of an antique repair. The iron wire cage and pin stem show natural age-appropriate oxidation and surface rust, while the pin mechanism opens and closes smoothly.

• Width: 7.0 cm

• Height: 5.5 cm