Mary Todd Lincoln's Jewelry
Media accounts of the new first lady represented her as plain and plump. Critics attacked Mary Todd Lincoln for spending far more on gowns and jewelry than her resources allowed. This seed pearl necklace and matching bracelet set was purchased from Tiffany & Co. in New York City. She is reported to have spent $2,000 on a single gown, which, during a time of war and sacrifice, only added to the public ridicule. Mary wore this jewelry to Lincoln's first Inaugural Ball. This photograph, taken at the Washington studio of Mathew Brady, shows Mrs. Lincoln wearing the seed pearl necklace and matching bracelet set displayed here, which she purchased from Tiffany & Co., in New York City.
Media accounts of the new first lady represented her as plain and plump. Critics attacked Mary Todd Lincoln for spending far more on gowns and jewelry than her resources allowed. This seed pearl necklace and matching bracelet set was purchased from Tiffany & Co. in New York City. She is reported to have spent $2,000 on a single gown, which, during a time of war and sacrifice, only added to the public ridicule. Mary wore this jewelry to Lincoln's first Inaugural Ball. This photograph, taken at the Washington studio of Mathew Brady, shows Mrs. Lincoln wearing the seed pearl necklace and matching bracelet set displayed here, which she purchased from Tiffany & Co., in New York City.