Probably my very best Victorian mourning brooch, this one is extra large, tests at 14k but might be 15k - 16k (I have acid for 14k and 18k, and it does not test 18k). Large in size (measurements in mm and inches noted on photos), it still mourns the loss of "Henry Frost, Died Dec 19, 1867, Aged 31", as is engraved on back. Very blond, his plaited lock of hair remains untouched within the locket. Stunning old thing, and so large - A full 2" widest. Hinged pin back and c-clamp all intact, as well. The enamel also is custom, noting "Memory of HF" encircling the locket. I did a cursory search to see if something about young Henry might turn up, but it will take a more enthusiastic searcher than I am tonight, I'm sure. The box is not included, is not original to the brooch, and is only our prop to show it off well. The box would not close with this large brooch in it, anyway.
Very good to excellent condition throughout, as you can see. I find no dents, and it's quite rich in its inherent opulence. It seems perfect, really, but looking very closely, which you're able to do with our enlarged photos, it appears there was once black enamel in the outer recesses of the ornate outer scrolling in repoussè - do you see remnants of kiln-fired enamels in some? Again, the box does not go with this brooch. It is just our prop for photos.
