Unique funeral brooch – Victorian England of the 19th century

A book copy of the jewellery being signed on in the current of sentimental jewellery from the reign Queen Victoria in England (19th century).
Creating such personal, funeral jewellery special jewellery companies were involved then, and those in mourning, close ones – were responsible
for special preparation of hair of the dead.
The chemical process associated with it was very meticulous
and guaranteeing centuries of preservation.
(During this period, wealthy homes were used for this also separate furniture: tables to be prepared and embalming braided hair).
Additional ornamental elements – typical for this trend
sentimental jewelry, they were: black enamel,
yellow gold, fine freshwater pearls and English glass.
The inscription on the bottom of the brooch mentions 3 people who have died in the 1860s – hence the three locks arranged in the shape of a lily.
Queen Victoria suffered a lot after the death of her beloved husband
Prince Albert and longing for him initiated this kind
jewelry full of memories related to loved ones.

Decorative elements: 30 freshwater pearls in a shade of gray,
black enamel
Weight: 30.60 g
Metal: yellow gold tested pr. 375
base pins and sticks
Dimensions: 61 x 47 mm (W x H)
diameter of English glass – 16.5 x 25 mm