Victorian Carved Whitby Jet "Mother" Brooch

A lovely Victorian brooch carved in jet with the legend "MOTHER" incised by hand across the front.

Jet is a type of coal, made from driftwood which sinks to the floor of the sea and becomes slowly buried in mud, hardening over millions of years. Victorian jet, now extremely collectible, largely comes from the English seaside town of Whitby - not to be confused with "French jet", which is actually black glass.

Jet was popularised by Queen Victoria, who wore only black mourning jewellery following the death of her beloved husband Prince Albert in 1861. Jet was expensive - both limited in supply and requiring skilled craftsmanship to carve without breaking - and popular cheaper alternatives included gutta percha, vulcanite and bog oak, as well as onyx.

SIZE: 5 x 1.7cm.

WEIGHT: 7.8g.

MATERIALS: Jet, metal clasp.

HALLMARKS/STAMPS: None.

CONDITION: The brooch is in good antique condition with a nice sturdy clasp, though has a chip bottom front, see photos.

ERA: Victorian (c.1837-1901).

Antique and vintage boxes photographed are for display only and are not included unless stated in the description. 

Please be sure to examine all the photos carefully as they form part of the description, and do feel free to ask if you have any questions, we’re always happy to help where we can!

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