circa 1895 – circa 1915

Victorian

Edwardian

Western Europe or United States; commercially produced millinery accessory associated with mainstream women’s fashion during the peak era of large hat styles.

Historical Note

This hat pin features a sculptural black glass head formed in a spiral or coiled motif, creating depth and dimensionality. The glossy surface and molded ridges catch light subtly, offering understated ornamentation suitable for both daytime and mourning wear. Black hat pins were widely worn during the late Victorian and Edwardian periods. While jet (fossilized lignite) was popular earlier in the Victorian era, by the turn of the century most black hat pins were made of pressed or molded glass, providing a more affordable alternative with similar visual effect. The twisted form reflects the era’s interest in organic curves and flowing lines, subtly echoing the Art Nouveau aesthetic that influenced fashion accessories around 1900. The long steel shaft indicates use with large brimmed hats secured over voluminous hairstyles. This example represents a practical yet stylish millinery accessory from the height of hat pin fashion, demonstrating the blend of industrial production and decorative design characteristic of early 20th-century women’s accessories.