Antique Victorian Whitby Jet Earrings

A favourite of the Victorians, circa 1870's, a fabulously striking hand carved pair of English Whitby Jet earrings, in lovely condition and showing the classic Arucaria motif on a glorious torpedo shaped drop. A lovely shape to wear, they swing beautifully, and although a good size they are very light. During the Jurassic period, Arucaria Arucana (The Monkey Puzzle tree) grew in vast forests all over the North Coast of England, and after they died out millions of years ago the wood from them became fossilised and formed what we now know as Whitby Jet. Earrings such as these were created in workshops across the town. Material: English Whitby Jet. There is a tiny chip which is hidden in the carving to the top of the drops; but you'll have difficulty seeing it. Measurements: They measure 4cm from the top of the 9ct yellow Gold wires. The fittings to the top of the drops are of indeterminate base metal. Read our BLOG article about Whitby Jet here.