Antique Georgian - Victorian earrings ear pendants. Diamonds, silver topped gold. Made in France. Date between 18-19th century.
Measurements:
Weight is 11.8 grams. Approximately 1 7/8 inches (4.5cm) long.
Description :
Sparkling, eye-catching earrings in 3 sections. The surmounts are half globes, crimped on each side and set with a rose cut diamond at the apex. Gold loops connect to the next section - a looping pear shape composed entirely of very tiny rose cut diamonds set like flowers or stars. Very tiny detail - amazing to consider that each minute detail was created by hand. The central section, also connected via gold loops is a pear-shaped pendant with open wirework, reminiscent of a garden, leading to a raised round structure, set in the middle with a rose cut diamond. Little globes surround this section. Again, minutely detailed workmanship, all hand made.
The diamonds are set in silver, backed by gold. This was the norm during the 18th and 19th centuries as it was considered to show them off to best effect in candle or gas light.
Each section moves independently of the others. This swinging movement subtly draws the observers' eyes. The diamonds sparkle have a wonderful subtle sparkle as well. The earrings combine Classic French design with wonderful modern glitter.
The earrings are very sturdy and well-made.
The gold wires are clearly replacements and are easy to insert and comfortable to wear.
Marks and Metal:
No marks were found.
Condition:
Front appearance in good condition. The gold on the back of the earrings has small dings commensurate with age. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
THE STORY:
Beautiful jewelry was made in the French provinces during the 18th and 19th centuries. It is difficult to attribute these earrings to a specific region, but it is very possibly Normandy, as similar gold metal work can be found in other items, such as pendants. While there is no date mark, we believe these earrings are very early - late 18th - early 19th century. They were made in these areas consistently until the end of the 19th century. It's increasingly rare to find earrings from this period in such good condition. They are as wearable and attractive today and they were 150 - 250 years ago.
