c. 1820s Georgian 12K Gold Pearl Surround Mourning Hair Brooch

Lovely c. 1820s Georgian 12K gold pearl surround mourning hair brooch.

This memento is composed of perfectly curled locks of hair arranged into plume designs and decorated with gold wire. It is beautifully framed with a natural pearl border with a crystal cover.

The brooch measures approx. 7/8" by 3/4". It has its original clasp and tests for 12K gold.

Many pieces were made in memory of loved ones or as “memento mori”—literal reminders of mortality that Georgians saw as sophisticated, rather than morbid. While the delicacy of Georgian era settings has been replaced by more modern methods, the cuts and styles have continued to fascinate jewelry lovers.