Jet Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

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The use of jet jewelry dates back to Neolithic times in Ancient Britain. The Ancient Romans later adopted and popularized this gem material not only for ornamental use but for its purported magical properties.

Jet pendant with undeciphered magical script on one side and an animal image on the other (2.3 x 4.3 cm). Excavated in Nishapur, Iran, 9th-10th centuries CE. Rogers Fund, 1940. Public domain. Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Public Domain.

During the later Victorian Era, jet jewelry became a popular choice for mourning wear, after the style of Queen Victoria herself.

Jet is a variety of lignite coal. It forms from fossilized wood. Since it has an organic origin, it's not a mineral. Nevertheless, it's considered a gem, like amber and pearl. Although jet resembles anthracite coal, it's less brittle

Jet takes a very good polish. Faceting can add some sparkle to the somber tones of jet jewelry. (Gemstones often have a flat bottom).

Identifying Characteristics

Not surprisingly, jet burns like coal. A hot point test will release an oily odor. (Plastic imitations will release an acrid smell). Keep in mind this destructive test should only be used as a last resort for gem identification. Choose an inconspicuous spot to test any finished gem or jewelry piece.

Simulants

In addition to plastic, black glass can simulate jet gems. However, true jet is warmer to the touch than glass. "French Jet" was a popular glass imitation during jet's 19^th century heyday. Natural gemstones that may be substituted or confused with jet include obsidian, black tourmaline, and chalcedony.

Sources

Whitby, England yields the finest jet in seams. Spain also produces a harder but more brittle variety. Most commercial material comes from these locations.

Other notable sources include the following:

• United States: Colorado; New Mexico; Henry Mountains, Utah;.
• Aude, France; Germany; India; Poland; Russia; Turkey.

Stone Sizes

Due to jet's relatively low density, gem cutters can fashion carvings, cabochons, and objects either decorative or utilitarian in almost any size desired.

Care

Jet is brittle and has a relatively low hardness. Thus, jet jewelry such as rings or other pieces for frequent wear should have protective settings. Store jet separately from other harder materials to prevent contact scratches. Avoid mechanical cleaning systems such as ultrasonic or steam. Use a soft brush, mild detergent, and warm water for cleaning. Consult our gemstone jewelry cleaning guide for more recommendations.

Joel E. Arem, Ph.D., FGA

Dr. Joel E. Arem has more than 60 years of experience in the world of gems and minerals. After obtaining his Ph.D. in Mineralogy from Harvard University, he has published numerous books that are still among the most widely used references and guidebooks on crystals, gems and minerals in the world.

Co-founder and President of numerous organizations, Dr. Arem has enjoyed a lifelong career in mineralogy and gemology. He has been a Smithsonian scientist and Curator, a consultant to many well-known companies and institutions, and a prolific author and speaker. Although his main activities have been as a gem cutter and dealer, his focus has always been education. joelarem.com

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