Antique Victorian Whitby Jet Brooch with Carved Lovebirds Panel c1860

A beautiful statement-sized antique mid-Victorian Whitby jet brooch, set with an intricately carved bone panel depicting a pair of lovebirds calling to one another from within a leafy tree. The delicately pierced carving stands out beautifully against the deep black polished jet, creating a striking contrast typical of high-quality Victorian mourning and sentimental jewellery. The substantial oval Whitby jet cabochon is mounted within a heavy white metal setting of notably robust construction. The mount is mechanically secured to the jet with visible rivets to the reverse and sides — an earlier and superior method of construction, as later Victorian jet brooches were often simply cemented or glued into place. To the reverse is a traditional long pin fitting with a t-hinge and c-clasp, together with a removable silver safety chain. Exceptionally well made and impressive in scale, this is a fine example of genuine high Victorian Whitby jet jewellery — highly collectible and increasingly sought after. We are located close to the historic heart of the former Victorian Whitby jet industry, and all of our jet pieces are carefully sourced locally. THE DETAILS MATERIALS: Whitby jet, carved bone, white metal, silver SIZE: 4.5cm (1¾ inches) high, 4cm (1½ inches) wide DATE: Circa 1860, Mid-Victorian WEIGHT: 25.5 grams CONDITION: Very good antique condition with light age-appropriate surface wear and no noted flaws. ______________________ At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear and enjoy or give as a gift. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION * Free worldwide shipping on all purchases. * Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days. * All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations. * Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions. * Buying a gift? – your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase. Check out our Etsy reviews at https://mercymadge.etsy.com