Whitby Jet Genuine Natural 34g Polished Fossil Gemstone from Yorkshire UK | Authentic British Organic Crystal Mineral Specimen with COA

Description

Genuine Whitby Jet – 34g Natural Organic Gemstone from Yorkshire, UK

This outstanding Whitby Jet specimen (34g) was sourced from the world-famous Whitby coastline in North Yorkshire, England, the only true origin of genuine Whitby Jet. Formed approximately 180 million years ago during the Jurassic Period, this organic gemstone began life as the wood of ancient Araucariaceae conifer trees. Over millions of years, the buried wood was compressed within the dark marine shales of the region, transforming into the lightweight, lustrous black material admired for centuries as one of Britain’s most beautiful natural treasures.

The exact specimen pictured is the one you will receive, and its weight of 34 grams is verified. The photograph includes a 1cm scale rule cube for precise size reference. Every piece we offer is 100% genuine, carefully selected for quality, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, confirming its provenance and authenticity.

Geological Formation and Origin

Whitby Jet originates from the Upper Lias Shales (Lower Jurassic, Toarcian Stage)—a geological formation renowned for both fossil preservation and organic-rich deposits. These marine sediments were laid down in a low-oxygen (anoxic) seabed environment, which prevented decay and allowed woody material from ancient conifer forests to fossilise rather than decompose.

Unlike coal, which forms through high heat and pressure, Jet forms via carbonisation under relatively low temperatures. This process preserves the structure of the original wood, including growth rings and internal cell patterns, visible under magnification. Over time, the material hardened into a dense, uniform organic mineraloid with a distinct black lustre. The resulting gemstone has been mined and collected for over two millennia from Whitby’s cliffs, beaches, and natural exposures within the Jurassic Lias Group.

Physical and Mineralogical Properties

Whitby Jet is classified as an organic gemstone (mineraloid) composed mainly of carbon, with traces of hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen. It has a specific gravity of about 1.3, making it exceptionally light for its appearance. The colour is a rich, opaque black, often with a natural satin finish that can be polished to a mirror-like shine.

A distinctive feature of Jet is its conchoidal fracture, producing smooth, curved break surfaces similar to obsidian or glass. When rubbed or warmed, genuine Jet emits a faint scent reminiscent of burnt wood—one of the classic identifiers distinguishing it from imitations.

This 34g specimen displays the signature characteristics of fine Whitby Jet: a deep, even black tone, smooth texture, and natural organic sheen. It is ideal for collectors, jewellers, and enthusiasts seeking a historically significant, naturally formed gemstone with exceptional visual appeal.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Whitby Jet has a long and fascinating history. It was prized as early as Neolithic and Roman Britain, used to craft beads, amulets, and ornaments believed to hold protective powers. The gemstone achieved global fame in the Victorian era, when Queen Victoria wore Whitby Jet jewellery during her mourning period for Prince Albert. This royal endorsement turned Whitby into a centre of fine Jet craftsmanship, producing intricate carvings, brooches, and necklaces that became symbols of sophistication and sentimentality.

The association between Jet and mourning jewellery made it a symbol of both elegance and emotional depth. However, beyond its historical uses, Jet remains valued today for its organic origin, deep black colour, and smooth, glassy finish—qualities that appeal to both collectors and modern lapidary artisans.

Collector and Display Qualities

This 34g Whitby Jet specimen embodies the finest qualities of this iconic British gemstone: excellent preservation, natural luster, and authentic geological provenance. Its low density and velvety surface texture make it ideal for display, carving, or inclusion in a curated natural history collection. Each specimen is unique, formed by the interplay of ancient biology and Jurassic geology.

All of our crystals and gemstones are 100% genuine specimens, supplied with a Certificate of Authenticity for complete assurance. The item shown is the exact piece you will receive, ethically collected and prepared with care. This Whitby Jet specimen is not only a rare geological artifact from the Yorkshire coast but also a timeless piece of natural beauty that captures 180 million years of Earth’s history.