Whitby Jet became a necessary part of..

mourning jewelry, and a huge industry developed during the Victorian era.  Its somber color and modest appearance in all forms had it formed into religious artifacts and jewelry such as rosaries for monks.

(Photos: Late Victorian typical mourning gown with “high” and “low” Whitby mourning jewelry.  Below: sample of a favorite mourning brooch design which might include bars for number of children, a spouse, or other beloveds left behind by the deceased)