Lori McLean

Urn Theme in Victorian Jewelry

Many of the pieces above depict urns, a common symbol of mortality in Victorian mourning jewelry. We also see several pieces with black enamel, which also represents mortality and death. White enamel was often used when remembering the death of a child or unmarried woman. Wheat sheaves, shown in pins in the bottom cluster, was a common symbol of prosperity and bounty. In fact, early bridal bouquets often included wheat for that very reason!