The design of these stunning earrings was very popular on the Iberian peninsula in the 18th Century.
This design is named 'girandole', after a three-armed type of candelabra. A girandole consists of three parts: a relatively simple top, a bow-shaped central part, and three pear-shaped drops.
This particular pair is made from 18kt yellow gold and studded with several table-cut emeralds, a gemstone that was found in the South-Americas, and used profusely in Iberian jewellery.
The earrings are fitted with the original hook-closings, which are threaded through the ear in the front, and close in the back. The hinges of these hooks are placed at the top of the setting, which is the first time I have seen it been installed this way.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 55 x 31 mm.
Weight: Combined 10.76 grams.
Age: Late 18th Century, also known as the Georgian era, circa 1780s.
Material: The earrings carry a hallmark at the back which is not readable anymore. They have been acid tested as being 18kt gold.
Condition: These earrings are in antique condition with multiple signs of wear, consistent with their age. At the back of both earrings, you'll see traces of repairs that were made in the past. One emerald is a replacement, and two smaller emeralds are missing. This can be seen in the pictures.
Even with these repairs, both earrings feel sturdy, and the hinged hooks are still in good working order. With a little care (I would not wear them 24/7 but suspect their new owner wouldn't want to either) they still can be worn and enjoyed for many more decades.