These French 18k gold earrings are set with a cluster of antique-cut paste gemstones in open settings. They are fitted with leverback closures, which make them comfortable to wear.
The term 'paste' is now generally used for a specific type of faceted glass gemstone, developed by George Friedrich Strass in the 1720s. Glass has been used in jewellery since glass was invented millennia ago, but Strass experimented with the lead content and discovered a recipe that created a brilliance that replicated diamonds. Paste gemstones remained very popular throughout the 18th and 19th centuries.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Size: 19 x 13 mm: each cluster is 13 mm in diameter.
Weight: combined 3.00 grams
Age: 19th Century, also known as the Victorian era, circa 1850s.
Material: Hallmarked with French hallmarks for 18k gold, used after 1838.
Condition: In good antique condition with minor signs of wear, consistent with their age.
Please note that the antique box is for display purposes. 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.
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.