19th Century Necklace Appraisal

Victorian Hair Work Necklace with T-Bar Closure and Acorn Charm

This item is a Victorian-era hair work necklace, likely an example of grieving or sentimental jewelry. The primary component is a thick, dark brown or black rope, intricately braided from human hair, suggesting a significant level of craftsmanship common in this period. The 'hair work' technique involves meticulously weaving or braiding strands of hair into various forms, in this case, a substantial twisted rope. The necklace features gold-tone metal findings throughout. Both ends of the hair rope are terminated with decorative, cylindrical gold-tone caps, one of which connects to a T-bar closure. The T-bar itself is dark, possibly a blued metal or oxidized silver, and features a detailed, clasped hand motif in its center, which was a common symbol of friendship or remembrance in Victorian jewelry. The other end of the necklace segment attaches to a chain that connects to a ring, through which the T-bar is inserted for fastening. A striking feature is the attached acorn-shaped charm, also crafted from hair work, with a finely netted or textured surface on the 'cap' portion and a smoother, tapering base. This acorn is suspended from a small gold-tone bail. The overall condition appears good for its age, though some slight loosening of the hair braid or minor wear to the gold-tone metal may be present, as is typical with antique pieces. The dark coloration of the hair and the solemn T-bar design align with the aesthetic of Victorian grieving jewelry, popular from the mid to late 19th century. The quality of the hair work indicates skilled artisanry.