This is a beautiful Victorian pendant carved in vulcanite, a material widely used in the mid-to-late 19th century as a fashionable and affordable alternative to jet. The pendant is oval in form, with a finely detailed cross motif at its centre, surrounded by a radiating starburst design. The carving demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship achieved in vulcanite, which could be moulded or hand-worked to produce crisp, intricate designs.

Vulcanite, also known as ebonite, was created by hardening natural rubber with sulphur through the vulcanisation process patented by Charles Goodyear in 1844. In jewellery, it was prized for its durability, its ability to imitate Whitby jet, and its suitability for deep black mourning ornaments. Unlike jet, which was laboriously hand-carved, vulcanite could be pressed into moulds, allowing detailed patterns and symbolic motifs to be produced more efficiently, making it popular among the growing Victorian middle classes.

Cross pendants held deep meaning in the 19th century, often worn as symbols of faith, remembrance, and protection. During the long mourning periods observed in Victorian society, dark materials such as jet, onyx, gutta-percha, and vulcanite were commonly used for jewellery. This piece would likely have been worn suspended from a ribbon or fine chain, both as a devotional emblem and as a reflection of the era’s mourning traditions.

The pendant retains a wonderful matte black patina, typical of vulcanite as it ages, adding to its antique character. Its combination of material, symbolism, and craftsmanship makes it not only a striking jewel but also a poignant relic of Victorian culture and sentiment.

Condition: There is a hole (intended- not damage) at the reverse where the cross is. Good antique condition. Please examine the pictures. 

4.5cm x 3cm

Supplied on a 14ct gold filled chain.