Jet Brooch ‘Grape Leaf’ 

This lovely brooch, featuring a grape leaf, is hand-carved from genuine Jet and dates to the nineteenth century (1860–1880). It embodies the art of  floriography, a coded system for conveying messages through floral imagery developed during the Victorian era.

Jet is the fossilised wood of Araucaria araucana (Monkey Puzzle) and related species, which thrived during the Jurassic period, approximately 150 to 180 million years ago. Valued for its deep, lustrous black colour and exceptional rarity, Jet gained prominence in the Victorian era (1860–1890). During this time, black jewellery evolved beyond mourning adornment to represent a sophisticated symbol of style. Items made from Jet, bog oak, vulcanite, or pressed horn frequently held significant personal meaning, functioning as mementoes of affection, loss, and remembrance.

Grapes and leaves carved from Jet frequently symbolised the Christian faith. The presence of the grape leaf in Christian churches or at funeral rites typically signified triumph over death and the promise of heavenly joy.

Specifications
Description: Jet, likely Whitby Jet
Condition: Original, good, with only a few minor edge imperfections
Colour: Lustrous black
Closure Type: C-Clasp
Period: Victorian era (1837-1901), late 19th century
Dimensions: H4.5cm x W5.2cm x D0.8cm, approximately

PLEASE NOTE Our antique and vintage collections are second-hand items. Customers are not purchasing ‘new’, ‘perfect’ or ‘unworn items’, and as such, should expect wear and imperfections. It is expected that these pieces will show normal wear and tear, given their age. Wear could include patina, scuffs, and light scratches or chips. Images are of actual items. Please review the photos carefully before purchasing and reach out if you have any questions.