9ct gold Victorian Mizpah brooch

This Victorian Mizpah brooch dates from approximately 1880-1900 during the height of Victorian sentimental jewelry. The word 'Mizpah' comes from Genesis 31:49 in the Bible, meaning 'The Lord watch between me and thee when we are absent one from another,' making it a popular token exchanged between loved ones during periods of separation. Mizpah jewelry became particularly fashionable during the Victorian era when romantic symbolism in jewelry was at its peak. These pieces were often given as tokens of affection between courting couples, friends, or family members who were to be separated by distance. Collectors of Victorian sentimental jewelry highly value these pieces for their emotional significance, craftsmanship, and as tangible connections to Victorian romantic traditions.