Halley’s Comet Jewelry

Pictured: Antique Stylized Comet Brooch Inspired by Halley’s Comet

Details & Thoughts: The Victorians had great respect and admiration for astronomy. Common themes found in jewelry were crescent moons, stars and comets. Halley’s Comet jewelry was inspired from the 1835 & 1910 sightings. Every 75 years it has been observed, sometimes feared and always admired for as long as mankind has been around to notice.

This tiny brooch got my attention almost immediately due to its large and sparkling stone. Alas, it is not a diamond but an aquamarine (still lovely). After establishing that, I noticed the curious design and did some research. The single stone represents the comet, and the stylized metal is the comet’s tail. I am glad I gave this tiny piece of jewelry a second glance because it led me to learn more about comet & star themed jewelry as well as Halley’s comet.

I wonder if jewelers crafted their pieces before or after the sighting of the comet. Before – out of respect and excitement for a possibly catastrophic and life altering event. After – inspired (and relieved) by the harmless and stunning sight. We now know Halley’s Comet is nothing to fear – but a hundred years ago some people easily believed stories that gas in the comet’s tail could be harmful or deadly. Sins were confessed, gas masks, comet umbrellas and “medicine” purchased. I can only imagine the relief and remorse (for some) a few days after the comet had passed.

The last time the comet was visible on earth was 1986 – the next time will be July 2061. Until then we have these lovely little pieces of history to remind us of the beautiful sight.

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