Circa 1880s Victorian vulcanite cross pendant features an ornate raised floral overlay of lilies and anemones. It has a metal ring for bail, through which to string a ribbon or affix the clasp to a chunky bookchain.

Measuring 3 1/8” long by 1 5/16” across, the cross has a depth of just under ¾” . Over time, it has faded from black to cocoa brown, as vulcanite jewelry can do with exposure to sunlight.

Made by combining natural rubber with sulfur, the vulcanization process was patented by British Thomas Hancock in 1843 and American Charles Goodyear in 1844. Jewelry made from it became a popular mass-produced substitute for the more expensive black (jet and onyx) jewelry so fashionable in the mid- through late Victorian period.

This lovely example of Victorian vulcanite jewelry is in good condition, with scuffs and spots of faint discoloration on the center back (photo #5), in addition to the overall color shift.

Proud Member of the VFG Vintage Fashion Guild