Victorian Silver & Gold Mizpah Heart Pendant Necklace
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Directory: Estate Jewelry: Silver: Victorian: Pre 1900: Item # 1469823
Directory: Estate Jewelry: Silver: Victorian: Pre 1900: Item # 1469823
$495.00
A lovely silver and gold necklace with pendant in the shape of two conjoined hearts, one with the word “Mizpah” and the other with the verse “The Lord watch between thee and me when we are absent one from another.” “Mizpah” stems from the Hebrew word for “watchtower,” and was used in jewelry to symbolize protection for loved ones during an extended absence. In an era of months-long travel and extended warfare, the Mizpah became a tangible reminder of being loved and protected from afar. The hears are further adorned with appliqued gold flowers and foliage. “Mizpah” is most frequently seen alone, without any verse or other sentimental decoration. Originally a brooch, the hearts now hang from an old silver chain. The reverse bears hallmarks for Chester, England and an unidentified maker’s mark “SB.”
- Origin: England, ca 1890 (the date mark is partially obscured, but appears to be 1891
- Condition: good, converted from a brooch, some dings on the heart engraved with the verse
- Dimensions: pendant, 7/8” x 1-3/8”; necklace length, 19-3/8”
- Weight: 9.6 grams
