This is an exquisite antique Victorian braided real hair mourning albert fob chain with a masonic chalcedony yellow metal fob, with the lettering 'HTWSSTKS', and the same in Hebrew on the reverse side. 'HTWSSTKS' is a Freemasonry acronym for 'Hiram, Tyrian, Widows Son, Sent to King Solomon', symbolizing loyalty and truth within the Mark Degree and Royal Arch Masonry. The phrase alludes to Hiram Abiff, a figure in Masonic allegory who was the chief architect for King Solomon's Temple and is remembered for his steadfast loyalty in the face of adversity. 
The chain measures around 15" in length, not including the fob, and around 6mm in width. The rest of the chain is made with real human hair that has been painstakingly braided in the most delicate fashion, which was a typical practice in the Victorian era. The metal portions of the chain, (which are gold plated), in true Victorian style, are intricately patterned with what looks to be eyes (you decide!). This is a wonderful trinket from days gone by.
 
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