This exquisite diamante brad nail ornament dates to the late Victorian period. The oval cabochon camphor glass, sometimes called "fancy glass" by the Victorians, is set with two metal brads mounted at the back. This would allow for a sideways presentation with a cord or mourning ribbon tied through the "eye".

This mourning ornament is japanned steel or iron with a high gloss black enamel finish. A japanned finish in jewelry is one in which the metal is coated in a shiny black or very dark gray coating, and often this finish has a lustrous, black lacquer over the top of it.

1 5/8" x 1 1/4"

The brads (spikes or nail-like points on the back) show no signs of use on the spiked prongs. They are very thick and quite sturdy. Heavy for its size, best suited for heavier fabrics.