Brooch with iron beads from the 1860s

Length 4 cm.

Iron jewelry is in itself very rare to come across. This tradition stems from many of the great wars that ravaged Europe throughout the 18th century. The better bourgeoisie would melt down their precious gold and silver jewelry and then have copies made of iron to show support for the war. These could be engraved with text along the lines of "I have given gold for iron"

This brooch is mounted in brass with polished iron beads. Its clasp indicates that it is from the 1860s, which is the part of the Victorian period when Queen Victoria wore only black clothes.

It is in perfect condition.