Gutta-percha is a genus of tropical trees native to the Southeast Asia and northern Australasia regions. An inelastic natural latex material is produced from the sap of the trees which is also referred to as gutta-percha. The beneficial properties were discovered by Westerners in 1842, and the substance was initially used as an electrical insulator. A few years later gutta-percha became a popular material used to manufacture furniture and then mourning jewelry because it was easily carved and very resilient.

A fabulous gutta-percha set from the Victorian (ca1880) era! Comprised of a pair of earrings and a very large pin, all three pieces depict a wonderful matching design and are made of gutta-percha and 14kt yellow gold. Each piece of the set has a 3-dimensional look with a 4 ring gutta-percha base and an arc that goes from top to bottom in the earrings and side to side in the pin. This gutta-percha arc in inlaid with a thin gold band that has a simple etched design on it. Running underneath and through the center of the arc is a single gutta-percha bar in the earring and a double bar through the pin. Dangling from three of the gutta-percha rings are 3 small, flat tear drop shaped gold links. The earrings hang from 14kt gold wires and on the back of the pin is a simple 'c' catch clasp. Each piece is simply wonderful and would make a wonderful addition to any gutta-percha collection!

Measurements: The earrings measure approximately 2 1/8" long, are a little more than 3/4" at the widest point and have a depth of a little more than 3/8". The pin measures approximately 2" tall, are 1 1/2" at the widest point and have a depth of 5/8".

Condition: The overall condition of the set is excellent. There is no apparent damage to the gutta-percha, gold or to the wires.