Shopping on Saturday

I love estate jewelry. Not only for its uniqueness, but the stories and history that accompany such pieces. One of my favorite online shops to browse is Fay Cullen. I could spend hours surfing and daydreaming.

One bracelet that caught my eye was this antique Victorian tortoiseshell bracelet complete with the original heart padlock clasp in 15ct yellow gold. It seemed especially appropriate given that our son is studying the Victorian period in school and we listen the Vile Victorians Horrible Histories CD regularly!

The bracelet is most likely an example of Victorian mourning jewelry considered suitable for 'half mourning' or the second year of mourning the death of a loved one.

The mourner would only be allowed to wear black clothing and accessories for the first year following a loved one's death while the somber yet appealing color of tortoiseshell jewelry was considered appropriate for entering the second official year of mourning. This rare bracelet is an extraordinary example of Victorian era artisan's creativity and workmanship despite the restrictive parameters of the day.