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Victorian Vulcanite Mourning Locket

Regular price $228.00
Unit price
per 

While many people equate the Industrial Revolution with the invention of the steam engine or the cotton gin, another more ubiquitous product also emerged from this transformative era -- plastic.

Similar in concept to the plastics of today, these early Victorian era plastics were derived from natural materials that could be made malleable, molded or chemically altered to create a new hardened substance.

This groundbreaking discovery revolutionized everyday 19th century life and soon natural and semi-synthetic plastics were utilized in everything from picture frames and belt buckles to coated telegraph cables and false teeth.

Naturally, it didn't take long before these magical plastics took the jewelry world by storm -- starting first with gutta-percha in 1822.

However, this beautiful piece hails from the second phase in the evolution of semi-synthetic plastics with the invention of vulcanite.

Developed and patented in the 1840s by both Charles Goodyear in the US and Thomas Hancock in Britain, vulcanite (also known as ebonite) was formed by combining sulphur and natural rubber and then heating -- or vulcanizing -- the mix. The result is a hard, black/brown material that often resembles ebony wood.

Given its naturally matte finish, vulcanite and other thermoplastics of the time were widely used in mourning jewelry. This cross is a wonderful example of that. 

This gorgeous inky black locket features a hand carved leaf and fruit motif.  We can't decide exactly what the carving is, perhaps strawberries?  Flower buds?  Grapes?  We will let you decide!  Upon opening the locket you are greeted with the most intricately designed interior, perfect for placing photos of your loved ones.  The back of the locket is smooth and there is a bail imbedded into the vulcanite.  This necklace comes with a sterling chain.

 

Additional Details
Date: 1880s
Materials: Vulcanite, sterling
Measurements: Pendant 1 5/8" x 1 1/8", Chain 18"
Markings: None
Condition: Very good. There are two areas that are rubbed down/small chips on the hinge side of the locket. When worn, they face toward the back and are not visible. Does not detract.
Cleaning and Care

To keep your vulcanite necklace free of oxidation and looking new, store it in a box and keep it out of direct sunlight. Prolonged air and sun exposure will cause the piece to turn a rust/khaki color. To clean and remove oxidation, scrub lightly with a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Once finished, wipe with a light coat of vegetable oil to hydrate and let it sit overnight. Wipe off excess oil and voila!

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Rates are approximations. Exact rates will be provided at checkout.