Faceted black glass hat pin

Jewelry

Uncommon

Identified on November 8, 2026

Estimated Value

$25-$75

This appears to be a long decorative hat pin, a fashionable accessory used to secure women's hats in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The head is a large faceted teardrop or elongated drop shape in dark black material, likely glass rather than true jet, mounted on a slender metal shaft. The design is simple but elegant, consistent with Victorian mourning or formal dress accessories. The faceting gives the head a gemstone-like appearance, and the long pin suggests it was intended for a substantial hat or hair arrangement.

Era

Victorian Era to Edwardian Era, approximately 1880s-1910s

Origin

Likely United Kingdom or Continental Europe

Material

Faceted black glass or jet-style glass top with metal pin shaft, likely steel or brass

Condition

Good overall condition with visible age-related wear; the shaft appears straight, the top is intact, and there may be minor surface wear or oxidation to the metal components

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Physical Details

Dimensions

Approximately 8 to 10 inches long overall; decorative head approximately 1.5 to 2 inches tall

Weight

Light

Authentication

Authenticity Score

Medium; the form, materials, and construction are consistent with an antique hat pin, but the exact age and whether the top is true jet, glass, or later replacement cannot be confirmed from the image alone

Provenance

Likely a mass-produced fashion accessory from the late Victorian or Edwardian period, possibly sold through milliners or general jewelry retailers

Historical Significance

Hat pins were an important part of women's fashion in the Victorian and Edwardian periods and can reflect mourning customs, social status, and changing millinery styles. Long decorative hat pins are collectible today, especially examples with original heads and intact shafts.

Learn more about this type of antique

This identification and value range are AI-generated research aids, not authentication, certification, or a formal appraisal. Learn about the limitations and when to consult a qualified professional appraiser.