How were antique brooches worn?

Victorian pins and brooches were fastened to lapels, bodices, collars and scarves to secure garments or display decorative motifs. Many designs also incorporated hidden loops to suspend them from chains as pendants. Heavier versions, such as dirk pins and Scottish pebble brooches, fastened heavy woollen tartans and shawls. Locket variants also served a sentimental function by housing locks of hair or miniature portraits.

What is a mourning brooch?

A mourning brooch was created to commemorate a deceased person, often featuring dark stones like jet, onyx or black enamel. They frequently incorporated seed pearls to symbolise tears. These pieces sometimes contained a glass-covered compartment on the reverse to hold woven hair or a photograph. They formed an essential part of Victorian social etiquette following a bereavement.

How do I date a gold pin?

Dating relies on hallmarks stamped into the metal, fastener styles, and prevailing design movements. British items often carry assay office marks, date letters and purity standards. Stylistic cues also provide evidence, as Etruscan Revival and heavy agates point to the mid-nineteenth century, while lighter openwork and platinum elements suggest the Edwardian era.

Are these pins made of solid gold?

Many Victorian pieces utilise fifteen carat or nine carat gold for the structural frame and front decoration. Other examples combine silver fronts with gold backs, a method popular in earlier periods to enhance diamond sparkle. Silver gilt and sterling silver options also appear across various regional styles, such as Scottish pebble jewellery. Descriptions detail the specific metal content identified for each item.