Estate Originals Antique 14K Yellow Gold and Sterling Silver Baguette Cut Ruby and Rose Cut Diamond Earrings

These exquisite early Victorian Period (1837–1860) antique earrings are hand-fabricated in sterling silver with 14K yellow gold posts, large butterfly backs and connector jump rings. The stud portion features a baguette-cut ruby, set north/south, and surrounded by a halo of 10 rose-cut diamonds. Hanging from the stud is a cushion-shaped drop that contains a captivating array of 20 rectangular plaques, each set with a baguette-cut ruby and distinguished from the next by bezel-set rose-cut diamonds and negative space. The candlelight-loving compositions make these earrings very special. Measuring 1.5 inches in length, they swing and sway and sparkle from the columns of gemstones.

The enchanting aesthetic of the Victorian Romantic period dictated long earrings to be worn with evening dresses. Women wore their hair parted in the middle and wound into intricate creations that covered the ears. This style, along with a fashion for large bonnets, precluded the wearing of earrings during this period and few were produced. When earrings were worn, they were long so as to be visible below their covered ears. In the 1850s, hair receded from the face and smaller earrings and hoops began to reappear, and earrings were once again a jewellery necessity.  

Apart from gemstones, the other important factor that helps identify authentic Victorian Jewellery is the metal used in the manufacturing process: copper, gold, silver and steel were the metals commonly used in this era. The fashion of setting diamonds in silver which had begun in the Baroque period became common. Fine jewellery was often executed in gold with silver-topped front sides, but items composed completely of silver certainly weren't uncommon.

• Sterling silver and 14K yellow gold
• (42) baguette-cut rubies (6.58 ctw)
• (84) rose-cut diamonds (1.68 ctw)
• Diamond clarity: I-2
• Diamond colour: M-N
• Gram weight is 9.4
• Measures approximately 1.5 inches from top to bottom
• Independently appraised value for insurance purposes: $8,940.00 (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.