Images(6)

Sentimental Hairwork Bracelet

Date1850-1900

Object NameBracelet

Mediumhuman hair and gold

ClassificationsJewellery

Dimensions7 × 0.8cm

AcquisitionPresented in 1980 by Miss E Cadenhead.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDMS000056

Keywords

About MeThis sentimental hairwork bracelet is formed from woven strands of blonde human hair and is fastened with a gold clasp from which a small gold heart is suspended.

The notion of keeping physical mementos of a person, dead or alive, is thousands of years old. Using a lock of hair in a remembrance piece has been popular for many centuries. However, pieces of jewellery containing intricate patterns made from hair began to appear during the 17th century.

The craft of hairwork jewellery really took off in the 19th century as the fashion for sentimental jewellery grew.

It is likely, given the hear-shaped pendant, that this bracelet was given or worn as a gesture of love.