Georgian Coral Lover's Eye Mourning Brooch c. 1790-1810 All original & Authentic

Description

For your consideration and pleasure, my Georgian Eye Brooch
All original and one of the real ones. Coral 1/8” rounds surround the center rock crystal set into a pinchbeck bezel. Behind the rounded crystal lies a hand painted single eye lovingly rendered on a piece of ancient organic i__ry. The brooch has a ring on top to allowed it to be hung from a ribbon as a pendant or on a watch chain. Approximately 1 1/8 inches x 1 1/2”. All coral is firmly set. No problems whatsoever. On the reverse, a c-clasp as well as a second ring to allow a safety chain, if desired. The owner of the eye had their hair placed into the back of the brooch, again, under a rounded crystal set into a Pinchbeck bezel. Dates to 1790-1810. Free shipping with full insurance to any of the lower 48 states. All others, contact me for quotes.
Was purchased at Round Top, Texas from a trusted antique dealer approximately 15 years ago who guaranteed authenticity. I have purchased many pieces from this dealer and know their integrity. I have seen several marriages wherein an authentic Georgian brooch is taken apart and inset with a cut out eye from a miniature portrait originally painted on An ancient organic matter (i__ry).
Lover's eye miniatures originated in the late 1700's when George, Prince of Wales (later George IV) felt the need to send his lover, Maria Fitzherbert a token of his love. The relationship was frowned at by the court (she was a divorced Catholic) so he employed a miniaturist to paint only the eye and so the liaison was kept anonymous. In 1785 the couple were married, although this was invalid under the Royal Marriages Act as his father, George III, had not approved. Maria's eye was worn by George IV hidden under his lapel. This started a fashion of miniature lover's eyes in the courts and affluent families of England, America, France and Russia, a fashion resurrected by Queen Victoria.