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Fossil Mourning Brooch
Fossil Mourning Brooch
Fossil Mourning Brooch
Fossil Mourning Brooch

Fossil Mourning Brooch

Date1862 - 1901
Object NameBrooch
Mediumjet, metal, fossil
ClassificationsJewellery
DimensionsLength: 5.7cm
AcquisitionPresented in 2008 by Mrs Elinor Boyd.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS082116
About MeCarved and polished jet brooch with inlayed cross section of a fossilised ammonite. The brooch fastens at the back via a yellow metal pin.

Jet mourning brooches became extremely popular after the death of Prince Albert in 1861. Jet is a hard, fossilised wood and has been used in jewellery and decoration for thousands of years. Most of the jet used to make jewellery in the 19th century came from Whitby in North Yorkshire.

Jet was perfectly versatile, not only because of its colour but also because it was easily carved and manipulated to suit the needs of each stage of mourning. It can be left dull and unpolished, but equally it could be cut and polished into a many facetted, sparkling jewel.