This is pre-Civil War circa 1850 locket that opens to hold a photo or a lock of hair. This is a Victorian material that is hard to find today and is very collectible. The material is a rubber like substance made from sap of a Malayan tree. Gutta Purcha was discovered in the 1840’s and used for mourning jewelry in the pre-Civil War and Civil War time period. The theme of the Mourning Flowers is upside down Lilies which in the Victorian time represented Purity, innocence, and resurrection. Also Lilies were associated with the Virgin Mary and used on women’s jewelry and on graves.
This pendant is from New England and was worn with a ribbon or silk cord in the time period. The size is 1 7/8 inches long and 1 1/3 wide. The condition is very good and could be worn with a ribbon or chain today.