Description
A-Grade Whitby Jet – 56g Genuine Fossilised Wood Gemstone
This A-Grade Whitby Jet 56g specimen is a large, beautifully preserved example of one of Britain’s most distinctive and treasured natural gemstones. Originating from the dramatic Jurassic Coast near Whitby, North Yorkshire, this specimen represents fossilised conifer wood that has transformed over millions of years into a lightweight yet lustrous organic gemstone. With its characteristic deep black tone, smooth texture, and exceptional polish potential, Whitby Jet is a timeless material steeped in geological and cultural significance.
Every piece of Whitby Jet we offer is 100% genuine and supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity. The photo shows the exact specimen you will receive, and a 1cm scale cube provides precise size reference. This 56g specimen has been carefully selected for its A-grade quality, uniform texture, and striking depth of colour. Its smooth, dense structure and fine organic detail make it ideal for collectors, display, or lapidary work.
Geological Formation and Origin
Whitby Jet is an organic gemstone that originated as the fossilised wood of trees belonging to the extinct conifer family Araucariaceae, which flourished during the Lower Jurassic Period (Toarcian Stage), around 182 million years ago. As these trees fell into low-oxygen marine environments, they became buried in fine sediment, where oxygen deprivation prevented decay. Over immense geological time, this organic matter underwent carbonisation — a slow, natural process that compressed the wood and transformed it into Jet, a dense, carbon-rich gemstone.
This transformation took place within the Whitby Mudstone Formation, a sedimentary unit that stretches along the North Yorkshire coast from Staithes to Robin Hood’s Bay. The fine-grained shale and mudstone layers within this formation provided the perfect anaerobic conditions for fossilisation. Today, genuine Whitby Jet is found washed out of these Jurassic cliffs by coastal erosion, rather than being mined, to protect the fragile environment of this historic region.
Mineralogical and Physical Properties
- Type: Organic gemstone (fossilised conifer wood)
- Composition: Predominantly carbon (~75%) with hydrogen, oxygen, and trace organic compounds
- Geological Age: Lower Jurassic (Toarcian, ~182 million years ago)
- Formation Environment: Marine sedimentary, low-oxygen deposition
- Lustre: Submetallic to vitreous when polished
- Hardness (Mohs): 2.5–4
- Colour: Deep black to brown-black
- Fracture: Conchoidal
- Specific Gravity: 1.30–1.35
Whitby Jet’s fine organic structure allows for smooth, even polishing, producing a mirror-like finish when refined. It is lightweight, warm to the touch, and distinct from minerals like obsidian or onyx due to its carbon-based origin. The structure occasionally retains traces of its ancient botanical source — subtle grain-like markings or fibrous textures that hint at its prehistoric wood anatomy.
Colour, Texture, and Aesthetic Qualities
This A-Grade Whitby Jet 56g specimen displays an exceptional rich black hue with a natural soft sheen. When polished, it develops a highly reflective, glassy surface, intensifying its dark depth and lustre. The texture is fine-grained and consistent throughout, characteristic of high-grade Jet, making it particularly well-suited for fine jewellery or ornamental craftsmanship.
Its natural appearance is organic yet refined, offering a tactile warmth unique to this gemstone. Larger pieces such as this one are increasingly rare and prized for their homogeneity and size, ideal for display or creative work. The piece reflects light subtly, creating a sense of depth and mystery that has long been associated with Whitby Jet’s historical allure.
Geological and Historical Significance
Geologically, Whitby Jet provides a fascinating glimpse into the Jurassic paleoenvironment of northern England. During this period, the region was covered by shallow seas and dense coastal forests of ancient conifers. The fossilisation of these trees offers insight into the early ecosystems that flourished nearly 200 million years ago.
Culturally, Whitby Jet has captivated humans for thousands of years. Neolithic peoples first carved it into amulets and beads, recognising its deep colour and spiritual resonance. The Romans continued this tradition, using Jet for protective talismans and intricate carvings, believing it could ward off evil. However, Whitby Jet’s greatest fame came during the Victorian era, when Queen Victoria popularised it as mourning jewellery after the death of Prince Albert. This royal influence transformed Whitby into a global centre for Jet craftsmanship, and its lustrous black jewellery became synonymous with refinement and elegance.
Authentic Whitby Jet remains highly prized and is protected as a national treasure of geological and cultural importance. Only naturally eroded pieces are collected today, ensuring ethical sourcing and preservation of the coastline.
Collector and Display Value
This A-Grade Whitby Jet 56g fossilised gemstone represents a truly premium example of this historic organic material. Its rich black tone, smooth structure, and impressive weight make it a perfect centrepiece for collectors of British geology, natural history, or fine gemstones. For artisans, it offers a flawless surface suitable for polishing and shaping into exquisite jewellery or decorative pieces.
Every specimen is 100% genuine and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity, guaranteeing its provenance. The photo shows the actual specimen you will receive, ensuring transparency and trust. Formed from the fossilised remains of Jurassic conifers and polished by nature over millions of years, this Whitby Jet 56g specimen embodies both Earth’s ancient story and the timeless beauty that has made Whitby Jet one of Britain’s most cherished natural treasures.
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