Antique Victorian Crescent retailer Moon Mourning Brooch-1.25” Enamel, Diamanté, Victorian Bronze

Queen Victoria was the monarch of mourning. After the death of her husband Prince Albert in 1861, she famously spent the next four decades shrouded in black dresses and jewels—lots of jewels. She had what you could call an obsession with jewelry and commissioned countless pieces to remember her dearly departed husband and close relatives.

These pieces were characterized by the color black, black cameos, black carved bog oak brooches, intricate black Jet pieces, pressed black glass, etc. To the Victorians the color black symbolized the loss of life. As the supreme style influencer retailer Queen Victoria set the jewelry trends both within the English Empire and across the Atlantic. No one woman in the history of fashion had more of an impact on women's wear.

This diminutive Crescent Moon brooch is a classic example of Victoria's influence. It is a mourning brooch with a great deal of symbolism. Each element of the design is not only exquisite but holds a hidden meaning:
The central flower: The flower is a Forget Me Not, the black enamel as well as the flower itself symbolizes “In death I will never forget you.”
The crescent moon: Crescent moons celebrate the feminine moon goddess and therefore is associated with female empowerment. It also symbolizes change, as it turns into a full moon and then back, similar to the ebb and flow of life.
The symbolism in this brooch is clearly inspired by a death of a loved one. The flower and the moon made the definitive statement, “I will always remember you”.

Aside from the somewhat dark symbolism, the design of this brooch is quite engaging. The glittering diamanté and rich black enamel give the brooch a touch of elegance. The Forget Me Not flower, dark and wild, speaks to the Victorian Mourning aesthetic. It is a very interesting look.

The Specifics:
Measurement: 1.25”
Age: 1865-1875
Composition: Victorian Bronze, Diamanté, Black Enamel
Construction: The brooch has a working C-clasp confirming its extreme age (140+ years).
The brooch also exhibits delicate detail, saw tooth framing of the enamel and prong set stones which graduate in size.
Condition: Good Antique- some diamanté have darkened over time. (Please expand photos)
Thoughts: This brooch could be made into a beautiful pendant, perfect with daily wear.

Please review the photos carefully and email with any questions you may have prior to making a purchase.

Enjoy.