HISTORY

The Victorians were very sentimental and this was lead by Queen Victoria whose choice of dress and jewellery was highly regarded. She lived the last 40 years of her life in mourning after Prince Alfred died. She wore black clothing so black jewellery was the only choice. An entire industry grew around the mining and carving of jet, a fossilised coal found near the town of Whitby in England, hence its name. Imitations were made: French jet, a black glass and vulcanite, a hardened rubber, are just two of many.

This is an Extraordinary Victorian beaded necklace with cross pendant. Produced at a time when black jewellery was popular as mourning jewellery, I am unsure what it is crafted from but it is possibly onyx as it is not light but not too heavy either. There are no mold lines to suggest it is man made but natural striations visible only under magnification. It is not French Jet (glass) as it is too light.

It is comprised of larger and small spacing beads culminating with the original Rose Gold Filled Barrel clasp. The large cross is fabulously carved and shaped and could be removed, if desired.

MEASURES

BEADS               Length:            42cm end-to-end

                        Width:              6.6mm

CROSS:             5.45cm tall by 3.41cm wide and 7.3mm thick

Weight:           36.78 grams

OVERALL

Near MINT Antique condition! This is a Stunning necklace presenting with Absolutely NO wear or damage. The clasp is original one. These impressive, eye-catching pieces of Antique jewellery rarely become available so you will be thrilled to bits with this. Perfect  for any Antique Heirloom Collection.