Jet Brooch ‘Maple Leaf’

The main allure of this exquisite brooch is its delicately hand-carved maple leaf. The leaf shimmers with the deep lustre of genuine jet, and hails from the nineteenth century (1860–1880). It captures the essence of floriography, the Victorian-era system for conveying messages through floral imagery.

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.

The maple leaf symbolises strength, endurance, and good fortune, and has traditionally been regarded as a talisman associated with balance, growth, and resilience.

Specifications
Description: Whitby Jet
Condition: Original, very good, with only a few minor edge imperfections.
Colour: Lustrous black
Closure Type: C-Clasp
Period: Victorian era (1837-1901), late 19th century
Dimensions: H4.6cm x W3.2cm x D1cm, 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.