I was very tempted to keep this wonderful example of piqué triple hoop earrings. The shell remains lustrous and the gold inlay is as bright as the day they were made. 

These earrings are from the mid-19th century, before machinery was used to make them. The fine flowers and tendrils are typical of these earlier pieces. (Later examples tend to have honeycomb patterns, straight lines and are coarser in execution.)

The first piece of jewellery I bought for myself when I started dealing antiques was a pair of piqué earrings. They cost me 35 pounds in 1978. 

I think piqué jewels suit most people. The darkness of the shell softened by the bright glimmer of gold and/or silver seems to flatter all complexions. 

FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING WITH FEDEX

• Handmade and inlaid with gold and silver

• Approximately 3.7cm (nearly 1 1/2 inches) long, not including ear wires; 2.3cm (nearly 1 inch) wide

• Weight is 4.0 grams

• In excellent antique condition

• Will come in a Karen Deakin gift box 

• Note: the necklace in the fourth image is for sale separately. Please get in touch if you’d like information about it

Please examine the photographs carefully – they form part of the description. 

I’d be very happy to send more information and images. Layaway available.