Whitby Jet is a fossilized material of a tree called the Araucaria Tree also known as the Monkey Puzzle tree and is dense black in colour, which is where the term “Jet black” came from. The best material has always come from the town of Whitby in England, and was most popular in the late Victorian era when Queen Victoria herself wore only black after the death of Prince Albert. Due to it being found on the relatively short North Yorkshire coastline only, and most commercial quality has already been long-since mined out, it has become increasingly popular and sought after in recent years.
Not only for this reason, but also for the quite often timeless designs, antique Whitby jet jewellery is as popular as ever, and these earrings are a perfect example of why.
Dating from the late Victorian era of the 1890's, each earring measures 20mm across at the base by 54mm to the top of the sterling silver shepherd hooks and look magnificent on the ear.
With the elegant round design at the top leading to the large, bold facetted design at the bottom, these earrings will look so amazing when worn with that special occasion as well as being so comfortable and practical to wear all the time.
These earrings will certainly become one of your "go to" earrings for any time of the day or night.
Stock# ET504
Circa: 1890
$Sold.
Out of stock
Antique Whitby jet earrings
Antique Whitby jet earrings dating from the late Victorian era of the 1890's. When Prince Albert died, Queen Victoria wore black for the rest of her life. As she wore Whitby Jet jewellery, this made it incredibly popular during the late Victorian times.
A brief history on Whitby jet:
Whitby Jet is a fossilized material of a tree called the Araucaria Tree also known as the Monkey Puzzle tree. It is dense black in colour, which is where the term "Jet black" came from. Found since 10,000 BC in countries such as Poland, France, Spain and Germany, the best material has always come from the town of Whitby in England.
Is Whitby Jet rare?
Although jet itself is found in various countries, the jet from the town of Whitby is by far the most superior. Unfortunately it was found on the relatively short North Yorkshire coastline only, and most commercial quality has already been long-since mined out.
Where is the best place to buy antique jewellery in Australia?
At Kalmar Antiques in Sydney's historic Queen Victoria Building. for over thirty five years, Kalmar Antiques has been dealing in fine antique jewellery from the Georgian era right through to modern.
Click here to see more antique earrings that are currently in store:
https://www.kalmarantiques.com.au/product-category/antique/antique-earrings-antique/
Click here to go to the Queen Victoria Building website - a stunning building that we are situated in:
