Antique Napoleon III Victorian earrings. 18k yellow and rose gold. Made in France, circa 1860's. Come in original, fitted box.
Measurements:
A little under 1 1/2 inches long (3.5cm). Combined weight is 3.3 grams.
Description :
Supple, sinuous and full of movement, the earrings consist of a number of seperate parts, overlapping and surrounding one another. A red gold ball forms the surmount, connected to simple wires that make inserting and wearing the earrings very easy and comfortable. Below this, a pair of fluted gold tubing criss-crosses, one ove the other. Where they meet, they suspend a smoothe cylinder of gold with little gold 'barbells' on either side and finely modelled, detailed foliage on scrolling gold stems, beneath the center. At the same point, a fluted circle of gold surrounds the foliage. This in turn suspends a golden ball, suspended via links so that it quivers as the wearer moves. A final, large ring of gold starts out at this section and forms the bottom section of the earrings. The whole works perfectly together and the earrings are stunning to look at. The parts moves independently of the others, allowing for great flexibility and movement. The use of gold alone is extremely sophisticated and subtle. The maker has included different textures and variations on shapes to add interest. Further interest and contrast through the use of both red and yellow gold. Sinuous, fluid design, elegant and highly attractive. These earrings are perfect to wear for absolutely any occasion, by day or night, with jeans, a smart suit or a party dress.
Marks:
French hallmarks on the wires.
Condition:
There are a few small condition issues on one of the earrings. There is a sign of soldering near the surmount that is not noticeable when the earrings are worn. There are also a couple of dings on the same earring. Please see enlarged pictures and don't hesitate to ask questions which we will do our best to answer.
The earrings come in their original, antique, fitted box. Leather outside, silk and blue velvet within. Catch is secure and works well and condition of the box is very good considering its age.
