Pair of Black Mourning Earrings with Rose Design
Date1846 - 1901
Object NameEarrings
MediumEbonite and metal
ClassificationsJewellery
DimensionsLength: 4.1cm
Max Width: 1.4cm
Max Depth: 1.1cm
Max Width: 1.4cm
Max Depth: 1.1cm
AcquisitionPresented in 2013 by Margaret Carlaw.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS082645
About MePair of black Ebonite floral drop mourning earrings. The earrings are in the form of a tear drop with flatness at the back and a cushioned front. They are both decorated with an applied moulded rose on a stem with leaves.
The top of each earing features a small metal ring to which the ear fixings would have been attached. There is a small threaded loop attached to the ring of one, which is all that remains of the fixing.
Mourning was big business during the Victorian period and all levels of society and incomes were catered for. Ebonite, which was invented by Charles Goodyear, is a form of vulcanised rubber, which is very hard. It was a popular, cheap alternative to jet or bog oak.
According to the Victorian language of flowers a black rose signified death, farewell, rejuvenation or rebirth.
More About Me
The black rose was a symbol of death and farewell for Victorian widows.
mid 20th Century
c.1950
