Four brooches

Brooch in the form of a lyre, mid-19th century. American. Brunette hair and gold. Brooch, early 19th century. American. Pearls, gold, glass, and blonde hair.
Brooch, mid-19th century. American. Blonde and brunette hair, and gold.
Brooch in the shape of a cross, mid-19th century. American. Brunette hair and gold.
Hair had been clipped and saved as a memento of a loved one for centuries; in the mid-nineteenth century, hairwork was considered an art form. Long strands were braided into cords and chains or woven into forms such as lyres and acorns. Hair jewelry was not necessarily made for mourning, but more generally as a memento of a loved one who was still alive.