Good Gutta Percha
Found this Gutta Percha locket at the St. Lawrence Antique Market last Sunday. It is perhaps the most glorious locket I have ever come across.
Gutta Percha is a thermoplastic substance which is the coagulated latex of certain Malaysian trees. Jewelry makers started using it in the 1840s, its brownish-black appearance made it perfect for mourning jewelry.
This piece is particularly lovely for two reasons—the moulded fuchsia motif on the outside and the charming hand-tinted photos on the inside.
Right now I’ve got it hanging from my Victorian book chain necklace.
Fabulous!
This is wonderful! A locket like this is on my to find list. Just waiting for a thrift store miracle.
I’d been on the hunt too. Though I just got my tax bill and may have to sell it.