A very impressive Victorian Whitby jet mourning necklace.
This is a chunky necklace with nice big beads and looks to be all original with the beads threaded on coated cotton cord. The necklace is matinee length at 23 1/2" so nice and long and perfect for layering or wearing as a signature piece. It terminates in a lacquered dog clip at one end and a large size spring ring at the other.
A versatile piece that would have also been worn as a watch chain to attach pocket watches and other chatelaine accessories to jackets and bodices. Even though typically worn for mourning this necklace is far from plain and somber with the faceted glossy jet beads catching the light with a bold and elegant effect, an absolute beauty of a necklace!
MATERIALS: Whitby jet
MEASUREMENTS: 23-1/2" long (approx. 60cm). Graduated beads, largest 18mm, mid sections 15mm, smallest 10mm
DATE: Mid-Victorian circa 1860-1880
CONDITION: Very very antique condition, with minor chipping and hairlines to some of the beads as to be expected with genuine antique Whitby jet which is a brittle material. Any white marks are simply camera reflection. Two beads are moderately chipped as shown but the beads are stable with no damage near the holes so the integrity or aesthetic isn't particularly affected if the necklace is worn with reasonable care. The two enamelled clip ends are in good working order and fasten securely, as expected there is age related wear to black layer showing the brass underneath.
WEIGHT: 64 grams
Fabulous genuine Victorian Whitby jet jewel, desirable and highly collectible! Our shop is located in the in the historic heart of the Whitby jet jewelry industry and all our jet is sourced locally.