Most unusual early Victorian gold mourning brooch set with a beautiful lustrous sea snail shell inscribed Sarah Brown Obt.13th June 1843 aged 48. There is a recess in the gold for a hair locket now absent. 
1 inch by 3/4inch.
The shell symbolises immortality and has  long been associated with protection in the afterlife.
The shell of turbo marmoratus is prized for its nacreous surface.
Condition excellent, one claw missing.