Antique Victorian Mourning Bracelet Bois Durci Black Hardened Wood Stretch Goth

Description

Antique Victorian Bois Durci Wood Pulp Stretch Bracelet for Small Wrists
The panels are made from a formed wood pulp material (similar to Bois Durci) that’s covered in a layer of lampblack. The center panel bead is embellished with a gold-filled decorative piece and is marked “D&C Patent” on the underside.
The bracelet was restrung on black elastic cord.
Inside diameter 5.75”; panel height 1.10”; center panel 1.80”. My wrist is 5.5” and the bracelet fits close to the wrist, as it should. It will fit a wrist under 5.75”.
measurements are approximate
Bois Durci
Bois Durci is an early “plastic“ that is made from albumen (or ox blood) mixed with wood flour and pressed into molds. It was used for combs, pipe stems, plaques, small decorative items and to imitate jet jewelry.
The inside of the chipped bead shows a hardened wood pulp/gelatin or albumen material.
Condition
Good
with cosmetic flaws and age-related wear. Superficial scratches throughout that’s consistent with use and age.
Chipped bead hidden under the center panel (circled in photos); fine crazing on the lampblack coating.