Antique Victorian Gutta-Percha Vulcanite Mourning Graduated Link Necklace

Gutta-percha was the first semi-synthetic plastics. Gutta-percha is made from latex derived from the sap of the Palaquium, Isonandra and Dichopsis gutta trees found in the Malaysian archipelago, one of the many outposts of the far-reaching British Empire. Gutta-percha’s earliest appearance occurred in 1822, and by the 1840’s it was being used for everything from dental appliances to whole pieces of furniture. In fact, the demand for gutta-percha was too high to be sustainable and by the end of the Victorian era the trees were harvested nearly to extinction. This detail is useful for dating and identification: if an ornament is made of gutta-percha it will date from this period. Its naturally occurring dark color made it an obvious choice for use in Victorian mourning jewelry as another, less-expensive alternative to jet. Gutta-percha was most commonly molded, but sometimes carved. Stronger than rubber, it holds finer, sharper detail than other plastics of the era. Like jet, it is light-weight and room temperature to the touch. In contrast to jet, it appears to be dull and oily. Gutta-percha releases an odor of burning rubber when immersed in warm water or subjected to gentle friction.~ Gem Set Love

This fabulous necklace from the Victorian (ca1880) era is a wonderful example of jewelry crafted from Gutta-percha! This bold and beautiful piece is comprised of unique hand carved links. Each link is reminiscent of an anchor or mariner style links. The links are graduated. The rich black gutta-percha creates a bold and eye-catching appeal and the length of the necklace allows it to beautifully rest at the neckline.

Condition: The overall condition of the necklace is impressive. Besides normal surface wear, there is no serious damage to the Gutta-percha links. This entire piece is still very black in color, there are minor light brown here and there.

I have wiped it with a jewelry cloth, so it is ready to wear or gift!

Mark(s): None.

Length Approximately: 17.5" inches, not including the hook.

Weight Approximately: 42.84 grams.

This chain will arrive carefully presented in a gift box.

Shipping Insurance is included.

Please feel free to ask any questions!

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESS!