Silver and gold Mizpah brooch in original presentation box, circa 1896

This Victorian Mizpah brooch dates from the late 19th century (circa 1896) and was likely made in Chester, England. Mizpah brooches were popular sentimental jewelry pieces exchanged between loved ones during periods of separation, with 'Mizpah' referencing the biblical quote 'May the Lord watch between me and thee when we are absent one from another' from Genesis 31:49. These brooches were particularly fashionable during the Victorian era when sentimentality in jewelry reached its peak. Couples would exchange these tokens before periods of separation, such as military service or travel. Collectors of Victorian sentimental jewelry highly value Mizpah brooches for their romantic symbolism and historical significance, especially when presented in their original boxes as this example is.