A pair of Victorian lapis and gold earrings

A pair of Victorian lapis and gold earrings

Description

A pair of Victorian lapis and gold earrings, each earring with a domed-shaped gold link with twisted wire-work and beading decorations forming a crescent and embellished with a lapis sphere set within a concave, suspended from a lozenge gold top and terminating to a kite-shaped drop both with beading and wirework decorations, all mounted in gold with shepard hook fittings, circa 1850, measuring approximately 4 x 18cm, gross weight 8.7 grams.

An attractive pair of Victorian earrings. During the Victorian era, the archaeological excavations taking place were unearthing wonderful treasures, including the rare survival of Greek and Etruscan jewellery. Designers of the time saw the interest that surrounded the sites and immediately began recreating and designing their own pieces, mimicking the styles and techniques used by the ancients.
These earrings are classic example of archaeological revival jewellery present at this point in the Victorian era. Featuring rich royal blue lapis lazuli beads, wonderfully flecked with pyrite, creating a speckled glittered affect. The delicately applied wirework, harking back to the ancient Etruscan designs, highlights the fantastic craftsmanship required to make such pieces.