Summary
This chain link was excavated form Casselden Place in 2003. It is made of vulcanite and would have been part of a piece of jewellery or other ornament. Vulcanite is an early form of plastic that was manufactured by exposing rubber to high heat and adding sulphur.
Jewellery and ornamentation.
Poverty did not prevent Little Lon's inhabitants - women and men alike - from following the fashions of the day. An abundance of black jewellery reflects a trend that began with Queen Victoria's mourning for her husband, Albert. Brooches, pendants, earrings, shirt studs, and what appear to be tie pins and cuff links unearthed in Little Lon are the same as those in contemporary illustrations. Most of these objects originated from Europe. They may have come to Australia in the immigrants' luggage, been purchased locally or arrived in precious parcels ordered from mail order catalogues.
Physical Description
This is a flat oval shaped chain link that has a long rounded hole through the middle.
Physical Description
PROBABLY VULCANITE
More Information
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Collection Names
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Transfer from Heritage Victoria, Industry Superannuation Property Trust, 03 May 2005
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Context Number
7.016
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Site
Australia, Victoria, H7822-1209, Casselden Place, 50 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
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Activity
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Specific Activity
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Colour
Black
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Dimensions
19 (Outside Diameter)
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References
MULLER 2003: 27
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Keywords