An exceptionally rare Antique Victorian mourning brooch / pendant, crafted in 10ct rosy gold, formed as a deeply symbolic eternity love knot, ebonised to a dramatic inky black enamel and centred with a single, luminous marine cultured pearl.

ULTRA RARE VICTORIAN MOURNING LOVE KNOT, CIRCA 1870s–1880s.

This is one of those pieces that genuinely stops a collector in their tracks! An exceptionally rare Antique Victorian mourning brooch / pendant, crafted in 10ct rosy gold, formed as a deeply symbolic eternity love knot, ebonised to a dramatic inky black enamel and centred with a single, luminous marine cultured pearl.

The brooch is sculpted as an interwoven love knot, its looping strands flowing endlessly into one another — a powerful Victorian symbol of eternal love, unbreakable bonds, and devotion beyond death. The surface is finished with rich black ebonised enamel, a technique closely associated with Victorian mourning jewellery, creating a striking contrast against the warm blush tones of the 10ct gold beneath.

At the heart of the knot sits a small creamy marine cultured pearl, softly glowing like a tear held in time.

In Victorian symbolism, pearls represented tears of remembrance, purity, and love born of loss, making them one of the most important gemstones used in mourning pieces.

What elevates this piece into true museum-worthy territory is its clever multi-wear design:
*A traditional brooch fitting at the back for wear on lapels, bodices, or velvet mourning ribbons.
*A foldable pendant bail, allowing the piece to be worn suspended on a chain.
*An additional lower hook, intentionally designed to attach a tassel, locket, reliquary, or other sentimental keepsake.

This modular functionality is extremely rare and reflects the Victorian obsession with personalisation, symbolism, and layered storytelling in jewellery.

Please note: The tassel shown in the photos is for display purposes only to demonstrate how the lower hook can be used. The tassel is not included in the sale.

Black enamel, ebonised finishes, pearls, love knots, and convertible designs like this were hallmarks of high-quality mourning jewellery, often commissioned to mark the loss of a spouse, child, or beloved family member.

*chain not included*

Measurements :The brooch measures 2.5cm in diameter , the pearl measures 2.60mm in diameter.The brooch with a weight of 6.4 grams.