Antique mourning clasp with urn miniature, hair & sepia, 1873

Unlike our other mourning pieces this clasp was sourced from the US, so could possibly be American. It may also be European (French or German?), but certainly does not look English. There are intriguing maker's marks which I do not recognise. A deep one on the back of the main piece, and also another on the fixture.

The oval miniature is framed under glass and sits within a series of gold frames: a beaded floral border, a linear design and an outer scalloped edged border. There has been damage repaired at the clasp fitting, it is obvious to see in the pictures. There are rings still in place to attach a chain, string of pearls, or ribbon.

Another clasp is listed that is very similar in design. Interestingly they look like they have the same markings on the back but different ones on the clasp. This was also sourced from the US but from a different dealer. Tests as 14 carat gold (or rather 14 +, so could be 15 ct). The clasp measures 2.2 cm high x 2.5 wide (about 0.9 x 1 inch) Weighs 4.35 grams. A very collectable piece.

Item ID: PT00254