Mourning Fashion c.1870-1901

Part 2 of this webinar deals with the rise of the miniature portrait, from cost to the talented painters. Their depictions of wealthy individuals held hidden messages of love between couples in both life and death.

Mother of Pearl Ring, Late 19th Century

Inlaid with mother of pearl, this ring with the initials JB is another odd piece for a time when much of the popular jewellery was standardised in design (late 19th century). Its size and brittle nature make it unwearable, but certainly a statement of love between a couple. Vulcanite usage in in jewellery is much… Continue reading Mother of Pearl Ring, Late 19th Century

An 1876 Hair Ring

I’ve spent the last few Fridays looking at hair bands through the late 19th century, not only because they are prolific but incredibly fascinating. Hair bands (rings with hair woven through a compartment in the shank) became popular from the 1870s. Pieces in this form can be seen dating back to the 1790s, but from… Continue reading An 1876 Hair Ring