Have you ever noticed someone wearing a brooch featuring a portrait, or perhaps one adorned with an urn or skulls, complemented by delicate beadwork, a patina, or an aged pin with geometric patterns? If so, you may have encountered a piece from the Georgian period, specifically a memento mori brooch. Brooches crafted between 1714 and 1837 fall within this era and can include memento mori designs. The term “memento mori” literally means “remember that you must die,” and as unusual as it may seem today, it was a popular way to remember, and honor loved ones. There are also other styles of brooches named in homage to the four King Georges. Most of these brooches feature intricate designs and fine craftsmanship, often showcasing symmetrical patterns inspired by leaves and floral motifs. When you come across a Georgian brooch, remember that it represents more than just jewelry; it is a piece of history—one inspired by fascinating stories. For example, consider how the lover’s eye brooch came to be or the generations through which Queen Charlotte’s Diamond Brooch was passed. While few of us could afford such a diamond brooch, we can imagine the ripples it left through the family up through the Victorian period.