The Mourning Heart
A visible symbol of mourning, for grief that words don’t always hold.
A black enamel grief pin by Kathleen Gallacher of The Everafter Collective. Wear it while grieving, or share it as a thoughtful sympathy gift.
“I am mourning a death. Please be gentle with me.”
Grief is everywhere. But its visible symbols have disappeared.
For generations, people wore black clothing, armbands, hatbands and other visible symbols after a death.
The customs varied, but their purpose was practical: they allowed the people around someone to recognize that they were mourning and respond with greater patience, gentleness and care.
Today, grief remains, but most of its visible symbols have disappeared.
Mourning Used to be Visible
One to wear. One to share.
When words are hard to find, a Mourning Heart is a small, lasting way to say, “I see what you’re carrying.” Each pin comes with a card explaining its meaning.
1 heart · $12: To wear yourself or give to someone you care about.
2 hearts · $20: One to wear, one to share.
5 hearts · $45: Share with family or friends.
10 hearts · $85: For a group or care team.
Shipping is calculated at checkout. Purchases help fund hearts shared freely with people who need them.
Share the symbol with your community
Hospices, funeral homes, doulas and grief groups can explore bulk orders and request pricing.
If you would like to share what your heart means to you, send Kathleen a note. We will ask your permission before sharing your words or photographs.
Follow @the_everafter_collective and use #MakeMourningVisible to help others recognize the symbol.