These pretty earrings date from the 1850s when earrings were smaller than those made in the decades just before and just afterwards.

The emphasis in jewellery during this decade was not on earrings, and we don’t see as many examples as those from the late Georgian and mid-Victorian periods.

So it’s nice to offer this very wearable pair featuring a typical knot design overlaid with foiled garnets set in flower buds and leaves, with both the buds and leaves intricately engraved.

A simple torpedo-shaped drop adorns the bottom. The trefoil tops are typical of the period and are rare survivors. The backs are open – also typical of the period.

These earrings are lighter than they look – to be expected from a time before the great gold discoveries later in the century.

Jewellers learnt the art of making pieces appear solid and heavy despite using very little gold – as here. This pair weighs in at 3.2 grams, including the garnets.

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• Handmade in 15-carat yellow gold
• Set with two oval garnets
• Approximately 3.7cm (nearly 1 1/2 inches) long, 1.6cm (more than 1/2 inch) wide
• Weight is 3.2 grams
• In excellent antique condition – there is minor loss of gilding in a few spots
• Will come in a Karen Deakin gift box (my antique boxes are not for sale)

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

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

I accept returns within 14 days if you’re not delighted with your purchase.