Victorian mourning jewelry may seem like a macabre and somber tradition, but it actually has fascinating origins that reveal a lot about the society of the time. During the Victorian era, which spanned from 1837 to 1901, the culture of mourning was deeply ingrained in society. Death was a common and ever-present part of life, with high infant mortality rates and shorter life expectancies.
One way that people in the Victorian era expressed their grief and remembered their loved ones was through mourning jewelry. These pieces were made of black materials such as jet, onyx, and black enamel, and often featured intricate designs that incorporated symbols of mourning such as weeping willows, urns, and skulls.
The idea of wearing jewelry to remember the dead dates back to ancient times, but it was during the Victorian era that mourning jewelry became especially popular and elaborate. Queen Victoria herself set the trend for mourning practices when she went into mourning for her beloved husband, Prince Albert, and wore black for the rest of her life.
Victorian mourning jewelry served as a physical reminder of the deceased and a way to keep their memory alive. Lockets containing a lock of hair, a photograph, or even a tiny portrait of the deceased were common, allowing the wearer to keep their loved one close to their heart. Rings, brooches, and bracelets were also popular forms of mourning jewelry, with some pieces even incorporating hidden compartments for storing keepsakes.
Despite its seemingly morbid connotations, Victorian mourning jewelry was actually a way for people to express their emotions and cope with loss. It provided a way for individuals to publicly mourn their loved ones and show their grief to the world. The jewelry was often worn for an extended period of time, with strict guidelines dictating how long a person should wear mourning attire based on their relationship to the deceased.
Today, Victorian mourning jewelry is highly sought after by collectors and antique enthusiasts. Vintage oddities stores often carry a variety of these unique pieces, each with its own story to tell. These stores specialize in curating collections of unusual and intriguing items from the past, making them the perfect place to explore the dark origins of Victorian mourning jewelry.
Intriguing and mysterious, Victorian mourning jewelry is a testament to the rich and complex history of mourning practices in the 19th century. Whether you are drawn to the beauty of these pieces or the solemnity of their purpose, delving into the world of Victorian mourning jewelry is sure to provide a unique and thought-provoking experience.
For more information visit:
Phantasmagoria Antiques & Oddities
https://www.enterphantasmagoria.com/
Phantasmagoria Antiques & Oddities, LLC is an online purveyor of fine odd goods. We specialize in antiques, oddities, and peculiar items from the past.
