This lovely little brooch is a lace pin, also known as a fichu. These tiny, lightweight brooches had the specific task of pinning closed a lace fichu (a type of neck scarf). Fichus were fashionable from the early 18th Century well into the 19th Century.

The charming sentimental lace pin features a plait of woven blond hair preserved under beveled glass. The glass is bezel set in 15ct gold and framed by a halo of natural pearls. The endearment "Pet" is hand engraved on the back. The brooch has an early 20th Century replacement security clasp. Circa 1860.

This brooch made soon after the death of Prince Albert, Queen Victoria's beloved consort. The Queen's impassioned mourning inspired a fashion for sentimental and mourning hair work jewels that persisted for decades. Sentimental jewels held great meaning in symbolism; the pearls on this brooch represent the tears shed for the deceased. What an extraordinary and beautiful piece of history.

Details.....This brooch measures 0.79" by 0.56". In Very Good Antique Condition. You should always expect some wear on vintage and antique pieces; we consider it part of the charm.

Item #JJ576