RARE c.1793 Engraved Mourning Pin, Brooch in 10k Gold w Seed Pearls, Gold Monogram on Blond Hair

A spectacular 18th century mourning pin, brooch, honoring 83 year old “E Smith, 7, Dec. 1793” and with the pale blond, I’m going to venture it honors the loss of a baby or very young child.  Late 1700s., Georgian era, these mourning or memento pins were so precious and treasured, they often survive in excellent condition as is the case with this one with its 1 framing row of very fine seed pearls. Can be worn either as a pin or pendant (small bale up top means you can add a loop or hook for gold chain or to latch over pearl strand. Really a beautiful one – I’ve clustered these on lapel of a more formal AKRIS black silk velvet tailored jacket before and love that look. I’ve seen them hanging in numbers along a pearl strand which is also a stunning look.  Full measurements noted on the photos.

Very good to excellent condition throughout for this one. The 12k gold could use a polish on the backside (sorry I didn’t do that). The pearls are not lost or damaged, nicely matched and in 1-2 mm size. Hair art in place and cover glass is clear and highly polished, convex, drawing in light and showing the memento very well. A splendid pin!