The Research Archives

The Mary Celeste

The Mary Celeste

Ghost ships are a fantastic corner of maritime lore. Sailors love to tell tall tales of empty vessels, their crews mysteriously vanished, floating across the

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Victorian Hairwork Ring

Victorian Hair Jewelry

Although jewelry made from human hair has existed throughout much of recorded history, a combination of Queen Victoria’s favor and a surfeit of out-of-work wig

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Shrunken Heads

Shrunken Heads

There are few requests Arca Noctis gets more often than for authentic shrunken heads. While they are a Hollywood staple of freak shows, oddities shops

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Spirit Stereoscopy

Spirit Stereoscopy

More than 100 years ago, stereoscopes offered families an opportunity to visit faraway lands and witness world-changing events in a sensory-enveloping three dimensions. Middle class

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The Black Orlov

The Black Orlov

Fabled gemstones have a special allure for treasure hunters. From the allegedly cursed Hope Diamond to the mysterious Black Orlov, these priceless stones often come

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