Hayden Peters is a jewellery historian and worldwide authority on mourning and sentimental jewellery, based in Melbourne. His interest in the subject began 15 years ago when he saw a ring with 'in memory of' engraved on the top and thought it a wonderful symbol of affection. This led to him to collecting other pieces, including necklaces, rings, and bracelets. The period spanned is from 1550 up to 1920. He found this area of collecting a fascinating study in the cultural, social and art history of these times.

Sentimental jewellery is a token of love given from one to another person, whereas mourning jewellery is predominantly about the passing of a loved one, made to keep the memory of the deceased alive. Early memento mori (remember, you will die) jewellery used the symbolic skull and crossbones and coffin motifs, but because they have such a strong focus on love behind their creation, Hayden finds icons like this are wonderful and inspiring rather than being morbid, as some people think.

Hair belonging to a loved one was also used widely in sentimental as well as mourning jewellery, and was made up into bracelets, brooches or lockets. The hair-making industry became so big in the 19th century that over 50 tons of hair were imported every year into London to be used in this style of jewellery.

Hayden's collection has nothing to do with investment, but rather he sees himself as a curator, preserving these objects for future generations. He loves all of the pieces he has, many of which are museum quality. For him it is like holding the life of a person and their history in his hands.