18K White Gold Pearl and Old European Diamond Drop Style Earrings

This pair of vintage 18K white gold drop earrings embodies the romance and refinement of early 20th century design. Suspended from finely crafted leverbacks, each earring begins with a bezel set old European-cut diamond at the base of the closure, framed in delicate milgrain trim that lends softness and antique character. Below, a diamond-shaped drop unfolds in graceful proportion, with a slightly elongated upper half and a shorter lower segment, creating a balanced yet distinctive silhouette. At the centre of each drop rests a luminous button-shaped pearl, its gentle lustre contrasting beautifully with the brilliance of the surrounding diamonds. The openwork design is particularly captivating. A pierced background radiates outward from the pearl in all directions, giving the earrings an airy, lace-like quality. Nestled within this open framework are five bezel-set old European-cut diamonds per earring, two above the pearl, and one each at the sides and bottom, each encircled by fine milgrain edging. Between the outer marquise-shaped frame and the inner pierced panel, four triangular flourishes point inward toward the pearl, guiding the eye to the centre. These sections are each set with an additional old European-cut diamond and accented with delicate beadwork, enhancing both texture and dimension. In total, the pair features 20 old European-cut diamonds with a combined weight of approximately 2.65 carats. Their warm scintillation and softly rounded facets create a romantic glow rather than the sharp brilliance of modern cuts, perfectly complementing the refined white-gold setting and the satin sheen of the pearls. These earrings were likely crafted in the 1910s to 1930s, a period spanning the late Edwardian and early Art Deco eras. Jewellery of this time emphasized intricate metalwork, pierced designs, milgrain detailing and a harmonious balance between geometry and delicacy. Platinum and white gold rose to prominence, prized for their strength and ability to support fine, lace-like settings that allowed more light to pass through the stones. Pearls were especially fashionable during this era, symbolizing elegance and femininity, often paired with diamonds in refined evening jewels.

Old European-cut diamonds, popular from the late 19th century through the early 20th century, are characterized by their round outline, high crowns, small tables and large open culets. Cut by hand, each stone possesses subtle individuality, with broader, softer flashes of light that lend antique jewels their unmistakable warmth and charm.

• 18K white gold
• (2) 7.7 mm x 7.9 mm x 4 mm button-shaped pearls
• (20) old European-cut diamonds (2.65 ctw)
• Diamond clarity: VS-2 - I-1
• Diamond colour: H-I
• Gram weight is 7.3
• Measures approximately 4.5 cm from top to bottom
• Independently appraised value for insurance purposes: $12,630.00 (note: may not reflect selling price)

All items in the Estate Originals Collection are estate pieces created in years gone by. Although this item is in excellent condition, it could have some signs of its age and past enjoyment. The images shown are of the exact item you will receive.