{"product_id":"victorian-gutta-percha-vulcanite-mourning-necklace","title":"Victorian Gutta-Percha Vulcanite Mourning Necklace","description":"\u003cp\u003eGutta-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\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis amazing 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 rich black gutta-percha creates a bold and eye-catching appeal and the length of the necklace allows it to beautifully rest below the neckline. Finishing the design is a hand carved hook that securely fastens to the last link. A unique and dramatic piece, it would make a fabulous addition to any collection!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition: The overall condition of the necklace is excellent. Besides normal surface wear, including 1-2 tiny chips, there is no serious damage to the Gutta-percha links and the hook clasp is secure and in good working condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI have cleaned so it is ready to wear or gift!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMark(s): None.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLength Approximately: 19.80\" chain only; 20.80\" includes the clasps. Each large ink 1.4x 1.9cm; Round link 1.2cm diameter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWeight Approximately: 27.1 grams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe last photo is for illustration purpose only.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chain will arrive carefully presented in a gift box.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShipping Insurance is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease feel free to ask any questions!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTHANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESS!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"NORRYKIN","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56324912480422,"sku":null,"price":260.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0736\/6544\/6054\/files\/il_fullxfull.3460725549_2svl.jpg?v=1774570347","url":"https:\/\/norrykin.com\/products\/victorian-gutta-percha-vulcanite-mourning-necklace","provider":"NORRYKIN","version":"1.0","type":"link"}