Dearly Beloved : Georgian Era Fichu or Lace Pin with Pearls and Braided Hair

A Georgian Era fichu or lace pin, circa 1820, modelled in 14ct gold. Loosely braided chestnut hair shot through with silver is tucked behind a rectangular rock crystal with bevelled edges. A halo of white pearls surrounds the rock crystal, each pearl held in a crimped collet.

A fichu was a small lace scarf worn around the neck and décolletage for both warmth and modesty, frequently handmade woollen lace. Fichu scarves were often fastened with a fichu pin, also known as a lace pin. These small brooches were worn prominently and were often very dear to the wearer.

The loosely braided hair in this piece is likely to have been a close friend or relative of the original owner, worn to keep their loved one close to their heart. As photography had not been invented this was the only way people could keep a comforting reminder of their departed loved one close.

The loose braiding and the carat gold both suggest this piece was made in continental Europe (English braiding is much tighter, more like a weave). The long tube hinge, extra long pin and c-clasp are all hallmarks of brooches from the Georgian Era.

Manufacture: 
Modelled in 14ct gold with rock crystal, pearl and braided hair. The rock crystal has a bevelled edge. The pearls are well matched in size and colour with good lustre and no nacre loss, they all appear to be original to the brooch.

There are no hallmarks, which is in keeping with the age of this piece. The metal content has been verified as 14ct gold by XRF test.

Measures 21.08mm x 17.93mm x 4.8mm (not including the pin, clasp or hinge)
Weighs 4.64 grams.

Condition: 
Excellent. A very fine example of a European fichu mourning brooch.