Images(3)

Sentimental Hairwork Bangle

DateProbably 19th century

Object NameBangle

Mediumhair and gold metal

ClassificationsJewellery

Dimensions6cmL

AcquisitionPresented in 1973 by The Misses Duguid.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDMS037960

Keywords

About MeTwisted and plaited strands of blonde hair form a bracelet, with a gold baguette catch used as a fastening.

The notion of keeping a physical memento 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.

Hairwork was more commonly worn as a love gesture but could also be worn for mourning if the hair used was that of the deceased.