When Queen Victoria lost her husband, Prince Albert, in 1861, she went into deep mourning and wore black for the rest of her life. As the beloved queen does, so do her people, and black became the most popular color to accent or feature in jewelry throughout the Victorian era, often using materials like jet and onyx. This antique memorial bangle is a wonderful example, featuring a lustrous natural pearl sitting elegantly at the center of an onyx disk, which conceals a glass panel in the back. A beautifully braided lock of hair rests within the compartment, protecting the precious life memento for decades to come. Unlike most jewelry of the era, this bangle is not overly ornate – it allows the simple braided design of the bangle to guide the eye to the alluring centerpiece. This hinged bangle opens and shuts with a tongue-in-groove click-in clasp, and it is complete with a safety chain for added security. This antique memorial bangle is in fantastic condition – an excellent example of true Victorian craftsmanship!

• Handmade c1870s
• 14 karat gold
• Measures 6 & 3/4 inches inner circumference, with a 2" opening
  
• 4.5mm width 
• 5/8 inch wide centerpiece

Inventory # P17444