Definition: A type of vulcanized rubber, formed by combining sulphur and India rubber, then heating the mixture for several hours; Charles Goodyear is credited with developing the process, which he patented in 1844. Vulcanite can be white or of various colors, but is most commonly dark brown or black. As a result, in the mid and late-19th century, the hard substance was often used to imitate coral, tortoiseshell and jet - especially the latter, as dark pieces became more popular, especially with the prevalence of mourning jewelry.
However, while it can be polished to achieve a jet-like sheen, vulcanite is never quite as glossy as actual jet. Another distinction: vulcanite pieces are molded, as opposed to carved.
Also Known As: ebonite
Example: Vulcanite jewelry seemed a perfect, cheap substitute for jet - except that its black color fades to brown, over time and repeated exposure to light.