Antique Victorian Style Mourning Necklace with Black Onyx and Seed Pearl

This striking mourning necklace has a distinctly dark Gothic character, combining an ornate gold-tone pendant with a polished black onyx cabochon and a single seed pearl accent. The elaborate metalwork, deep black stone and aged finish give the piece the dramatic appearance associated with Victorian mourning and remembrance jewelry.

The pendant is particularly elaborate. A large oval black onyx cabochon forms the centerpiece, surrounded by finely detailed gold-tone metalwork with a ribbed inner border, radiating architectural elements and open scrollwork. Ornamental flourishes extend above and below the setting, creating an elongated silhouette with strong Victorian Gothic influence.

At the center of the black onyx is a single seed pearl. The pale pearl creates a striking contrast against the deep black onyx and adds a refined period-style detail to the otherwise dark mourning design.

The necklace itself is highly decorative rather than simply serving as a chain. It is constructed from repeating elongated marquise-shaped links with engraved leaf or feather-like centers. Small dark accents appear at the ends of many of the links, visually tying the necklace into the black onyx centerpiece. The repeating links continue around the necklace to the decorative clasp.

The combination of black onyx, seed pearl, aged gold-tone metalwork and intricate ornamentation gives this piece a strong Victorian mourning aesthetic with Gothic appeal. Black onyx was widely favored in mourning and remembrance jewelry because of its deep, restrained appearance, while seed pearls were often used as delicate contrasting accents.

The back of the pendant is enclosed with a solid metal backing surrounded by the open ornamental framework. No maker’s signature is visible.

Measurements:

The necklace measures approximately 20 inches in wearable length.

When laid flat from the clasp to the bottom of the pendant, the complete piece measures approximately 13 inches long.

The pendant measures approximately 2 1/2 inches long including its upper decorative attachment and approximately 1 1/2 inches across at its widest point.

Metal: Gold-Tone Base Metal

Center Stone: Black Onyx Cabochon

Accent: Seed Pearl

Style: Victorian Mourning / Gothic

Pendant Design: Ornate Openwork and Scrollwork

Chain Design: Engraved Marquise Leaf Links with Dark Accents

Closure: Decorative Clasp

Condition:

This necklace has a beautifully aged appearance that complements its Victorian mourning and Gothic character. The decorative links, pendant framework, black onyx and seed pearl are intact, and the metal displays natural variation in tone and patina consistent with age.

The black onyx retains a deep polished appearance, while the seed pearl remains securely positioned at the center. The elaborate pendant and unusual decorative necklace links make this a distinctive piece for a collection of Victorian mourning jewelry, Gothic jewelry or antique and vintage accessories.