Antique heart shaped Mizpah brooch with rhinestones and gold detailing

« Prev Item Next Item »

c. 1885 - 1905

Overview

Antique heart shaped Mizpah sweetheart brooch. It features a central scalloped edged gold tone heart on which the word 'MIZPAH' is overlaid on the diagonal, covering some of the famous verse from Genesis 31:49 - 'The Lord watch between me & thee when we are absent one from another'.
The outer frame is prong-set with brilliant-cut paste or crystal rhinestones.
The reverse is hollow and the two points of attachment for the central gold heart can be seen. There are signs of age including wear, tarnishing and patina. The brooch has a pin clasp for attachment.

Historical information

These pieces were mass-produced primarily in Britain and the United States. They were commonly gifted between romantic partners, family members, or departing servicemen and their sweethearts to bridge the emotional distance during long periods of separation or war. They were typically crafted during the late 19th or early 20th century (Victorian or Edwardian eras) using gold-tone metal, pinchbeck, or low-carat gold.

Details

Registration number

cwa-org-119-RoW01011

Item type

Badges

Collectibles

Ephemera

Jewellery

Personal Effects

Themes

Social History

Material