*British, WW1, Royal Flying Corps Sweetheart Brooch & Early Celluloid Heart Pendant (2)*
A charming WW1 Royal Flying Corps sweetheart group comprising a finely made enamel brooch and a small heart-shaped pendant incorporating RFC insignia. The brooch is of gilt brass with blue, white and red enamel, featuring outstretched wings flanking the crowned RFC monogram set within an oval laurel-style frame. It retains its original pin and catch. Accompanying it is a lightweight early celluloid/lucite pendant, moulded as a heart and set with a small brass RFC winged device, complete with its original suspension cord. These would have been worn by wives, fiancées or family members as a discreet symbol of pride and personal connection to a serving airman.
Historical Note: Sweetheart jewellery became immensely popular during the First World War, with the newly formed Royal Flying Corps inspiring a wide variety of commercially made and privately purchased pieces. RFC brooches of enamelled brass were among the earliest aviation-related keepsakes, produced in limited numbers before the Corps evolved into the Royal Air Force in April 1918. The small heart pendant represents the type of sentimental token commonly bought by aircrew for loved ones on leave—celluloid and early lucite were widely used as inexpensive but attractive materials, often embedding miniature badges or regimental motifs. Together, these pieces capture the personal, emotional side of early British military aviation.
*Condition* The enamel brooch shows light age wear to the gilt finish and minor enamel losses but retains strong colour and detail overall; pin and hinge are sound. The celluloid/lucite pendant shows age toning, small surface marks and some oxidisation to the embedded RFC device, consistent with period manufacture and use. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
