Black Belt : Sterling and Black Enamel Mourning Brooch circa 1915

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1915 is a late date for a mourning jewel. The first year of World War I must have been a desperately depressing time as the first waves of soldiers met their untimely demise, leaving behind bereft family. The traditional way to mourn was with jewellery, but as the toll mounted soon the whole world was grief stricken. I suppose it must have been at odds with hope for victory to wear your sorrow on your chest. In any case there aren’t many traditional mourning jewels from this time.

This piece is quite understated – a delicate belt of black enamel on a silver ground. Large enough to be noticeable without being ostentatious. The belt or garter is symbolic of a union between two people – a version of the eternity symbol.

Circular brooches such as this can also be worn with a very practical purpose. A customer visiting our stand during a local fair demonstrated how she uses such brooches to keep her glasses from wandering off. You can see my clumsy attempt at her elegant solution in my photos.

Manufacture:
A sterling silver and black enamel garter or belt brooch in black enamel. Hallmarked to the reverse for Chester 1915. Originally gilded, the gold has rubbed away leaving the stunning contrast of black and silver.

Measures 22.2mm x 31.7mm x 2.3mm not including the pin.
Weighs 3.5 grams

Condition:
The brooch is in excellent condition with no chips or damage to the enamel.

Description

A sterling silver and black enamel garter or belt brooch in black enamel. Hallmarked to the reverse for Chester 1915. Originally gilded, the gold has rubbed away leaving the stunning contrast of black and silver.
The brooch is in excellent condition with no chips or damage to the enamel.

Measures 22.2mm x 31.7mm x 2.3mm not including the pin.
Weighs 3.5 grams