Antique Onyx & Seed Pearl Brooch hair locket and often handle or wear

and often handle or wear snakes

With this adorable jewel

Metal: 14K gold band

Tesserae tiles

Condition: Excellent Ancient & Antique condition commensurate with age and wear

Antique Onyx & Seed Pearl Brooch hair locket and often handle or wearMourning jewelry has existed for centuries, but it wasn't until Queen Victoria's beloved consort, Prince Albert died at the young age of 42 in 1861 that the custom became a wildly popular fashion statement. Generally, Victorians remained in mourning for at least one year, and longer. The women were required to wear black clothing and jewelry to show their respect and love for the deceased. It became common for the family to commission mourning pieces