Identifying Victorian Black Jewelry

Berlin iron consists of wires of sand-cast iron, often lacquered in black, which gives them an inky, matte finish. Characterized by large but finely-wrought designs that have a lacy or cobweb-like look, "it's also magnetic and cool to the touch," Stockhammer says. Sections are connected with loops or rings, never soldered, as the wires were too delicate (so be wary of a piece with obvious signs of soldering). Pieces may be stamped with the manufacturer's name (Geiss and Edward Schott were two of the best-known), and despite the lacquer, may show signs of rust.

• Victorian Black Jewelry - Beginning with Jet
• Victorian Black Jewelry: French Jet
• Victorian Black Jewelry: Vulcanite
• Victorian Black Jewelry: Bog Oak
• Victorian Black Jewelry: Berlin Iron
• Victorian Black Jewelry: Onyx
• Victorian Black Jewelry: Cut Steel
• Victorian Black Jewelry: Gutta Percha