Victorian jet cross pendant with brass inlay

Jet jewelry became extremely popular during the Victorian era, particularly after Queen Victoria entered mourning following Prince Albert's death in 1861. Jet, a fossilized wood from Whitby, England, was the preferred material for mourning jewelry due to its deep black color and ability to be carved and polished. This cross pendant features a brass or gold-colored metal inlay at the center, a common decorative technique that added visual interest while maintaining the somber aesthetic appropriate for mourning wear. Victorian jet jewelry remains highly collectible today, appealing to antique jewelry enthusiasts, Victorian era collectors, and those interested in mourning jewelry history. These pieces are valued for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and the cultural insight they provide into Victorian mourning customs. Collectors appreciate the combination of materials, the symbolic nature of the cross form, and the fine workmanship that characterizes authentic jet pieces from this period.