MORE FROM THE VICTORIAN ARCHIVE – A MOURNING BROOCH AND NECKLACE

After several tries, here’s a good close-up view of this Victorian to Edwardian era mourning jewelry from the late 1800’s to very early 1900’s. Commonly worn after the deaths of close family members, this type of jewelry was usually set with onyx, obsidian, black glass or jet stones. The blank portrait area on the pendant is the aspect I find most ominous. So very glad that this morbid tradition has, for the most part been abandoned, at least in the United States.

The brief wearing of black armbands is less concerning and it is good that, in some cases, people who are recovering from a serious loss can be identified and respected. Though it could come in very handy as an element of disguise, I’m not likely ever to use it . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG: MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM

SURPRISE FIND – ANTIQUE VICTORIAN ONYX & FINE SILVER RING

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I don’t often buy fine jewelry when I’m hunting, but this piece is outstanding, lovely and versatile. A very pretty statement ring.

Often worn in Victorian times, onyx was used as “mourning jewelry” worn by ladies (and, possibly, men) after the death of a loved one. But, it’s gorgeous on its own and accents my black and white costumes very well.

I like to show my true vintage and antique jewelry along with clothing posts because it makes such a difference to any outfit.  A piece or two of jewelry can transform an outfit almost like a disguise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

MORGANA MARTIN, THE MAGICVINTAGESPY

BLOG:  MAGICVINTAGESPY.COM