
These earrings are made from 18k yellow gold and opaline, a translucent glass variety. The rim is set with a border of mother-of-pearl beads.
The center of each earring is decorated with a little enamel rebus. It depicts a pansy flower with the phrase 'a moi' beneath it: when read out loud, this reads: 'Pense a moi' or: think of me.
Jewels that are decorated with pansy flowers were popular in France, especially in the region of Normandy. Flowers in general were a popular motive used in jewellery that were gifted as a love token. The term for these beflowered jewels in French is 'fleurette', which is the origin of the English term 'to flirt'!
These earrings still have their original fisher hook closures, which are threaded through the ear from the back of the lobe, and close in the front.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 27 x 24 mm, 32 mm long from hook to tip.
Weight: combined 12.66 grams.
Age: 19th Century, also known as the late Georgian / early Victorian era, circa 1840s.
Material: Both hooks have French eagle head hallmarks for 18k gold.
Condition: In good antique condition with minor wear, consistent with their age.
Please note that this shop is based in the EU. Although antiques are exempt from taxes in most countries, buyers from outside the EU might be subject to import duties.